Speaking with reporters on Monday, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan clarified the reasoning behind those pregame roster decisions.
"Just mainly, when we don't have those guys up, and we have an extra spot, sometimes we like showing guys just appreciation for what they've been doing in practice and everything," Shanahan said.
Shanahan explained that practice-squad elevations come with a financial benefit, as players receive active-roster pay for the week, even if they don't see game action. However, after the game, they revert back to the practice squad.
"It gives them a little bit of a bonus and things like that," Shanahan continued. "Allows them to earn a little bit more money for the week. He's earned it. He's been awesome here for us, so we felt he deserved that."
The 49ers signed Valdez as an undrafted free agent in April. He has spent the entire season on the practice squad and has yet to make his NFL regular-season debut.
What Jordan Watkins must do to earn a bigger role
The 49ers selected wide receiver Jordan Watkins in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and while he remains on the active roster, opportunities have been limited. Watkins has been inactive for 11 games this season, including each of the last four. He has logged just 17 offensive snaps, catching two passes for 26 yards on three targets.
Shanahan addressed what Watkins still needs to show to earn more playing time.
"Jordan needs to show out on the practice field that he is better than the guys in front of him," Shanahan said. "And it's really tough with these guys when they've missed so much time, but he's been out here for a little bit, getting back in shape, and doing a good job in practice.
"But we're going to play the top guys, and he's still working to show that he's one of those."
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