Five 49ers to watch in Purdy’s anticipated preseason debut vs. Saints

SANTA CLARA — Originally, the 49ers figured to play few (if any) of their regulars in this week's NFL preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. After all, the 49ers' starters were expected to get the equivalent of two full games' worth of practice snaps against the Saints in back-to-back joint practices. However, injuries left the 49ers shorthanded and forced coach Kyle Shanahan to cancel the head-to-head practices, which were scheduled to take place this week in Irvine. Still, it's the backups who figure to take center stage again on Sunday night at Levi's Stadium. So, our Five to Watch includes four young players who are trying to establish themselves and, of course, one very notable player who is penciled in to make his preseason debut. Here are the 49ers worth watching on Sunday night: CB Renardo Green Renardo Green, the 49ers' second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, continues to be an intriguing option for San Francisco due to his versatility. There have been practices in which he lines up at nickel back. He also has played well enough on the outside that it's conceivable the team will move starting corner Deommodore Lenoir inside to cover the slot receiver in nickel...