Jimmie Ward won’t play against the Panthers as expected, but the rest of the team’s safeties will be in uniform. That includes Eric Reid and Jaquiski Tartt as well as a pair of rookies, Lorenzo Jerome and Adrian Colbert.
Defensive end Aaron Lynch will not play. He dealt with a back injury during the week and was questionable for the game. Arik Armstead will start at “Leo” pass rusher with Elvis Dumervil also expected to play significant snaps. Eli Harold and Dekoda Watson also could play there if needed. Rookie Pita Taumoepenu is inactive.
49ers inactives:
S Jimmie Ward
G Laken Tomlinson
WR Victor Bolden Jr.