In a surprising turn of events, the San Francisco 49ers suffered their first defeat of the 2025 NFL season, falling 26-21 to the Jacksonville Jaguars at Levi’s Stadium on September 28. The loss was marked by a series of critical errors, including a costly fumble by quarterback Brock Purdy in the game's final moments, which allowed Jacksonville to secure their first win against San Francisco in two decades.
The 49ers' performance was underwhelming, as they struggled in all phases of the game. Purdy had returned from a turf toe injury but faced an uphill battle, throwing three interceptions and showcasing a lack of decisiveness. Despite initial optimism regarding his health, Purdy reported increased soreness in his injured toe after the game, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming Thursday night clash with the Los Angeles Rams. Head coach Kyle Shanahan hinted that further evaluations would determine Purdy's status moving forward.
The absence of star defensive end Nick Bosa, who is out with a torn ACL, was painfully evident as the 49ers' defense faltered without his presence. The Jaguars capitalized on this vulnerability, managing to generate offensive momentum and ultimately controlling the game. Former 49ers players expressed disappointment over the team's performance, citing the many mistakes that led to their defeat.
In the wake of the loss, the 49ers face pressing concerns, particularly regarding their run game, which has struggled significantly. As they prepare for their next matchup, the team must address these issues while also dealing with the ramifications of injuries across the roster. With the Rams ahead, the 49ers will need to regroup quickly to avoid a downward spiral early in the season.