Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

An upcoming matchup on the Cardinals' schedule just changed drastically because of a decision made by a divisional rival

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Destin Adams | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 7:35 PM ET

The Arizona Cardinals picked up the win in Week 1 over the New Orleans Saints to start the 2025 season 1-0. They will look to build off that success in the coming weeks, especially with two of their next three matchups being NFC West rivals.

One of which will be against the San Francisco 49ers, who, when healthy, are considered one of the conference's top contenders. The Cardinals now know that the 49ers won't be at full health for their Week 3 matchup. Following the news that the 49ers are placing star TE George Kittle on the IR.

The #49ers are placing TE George Kittle on injured reserve, source said.

No surprise given San Francisco’s schedule: They play four games in the next 23 days, including a Thursday night game in Week 5. pic.twitter.com/CwJlQFfojO
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 9, 2025

49ers star TE George Kittle set to miss the NFC West matchup vs. the Cardinals in Week 3

Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (85) celebrates a catch against the Arizona Cardinals in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Kittle left the 49ers' Week 1 matchup with a diagnosed hamstring injury. And with him not being placed on the IR, it will hold him out at least the next four weeks. He is obviously one of, if not the 49ers' most important offensive weapons. This will make the Cardinals' job of slowing down their offense much simpler.

With Kittle sidelined, the team will turn to Luke Farrell and Jake Tonges to try to fill the void left by his absence. Another key injury the Cardinals will be monitoring ahead of the matchup is 49ers QB Brock Purdy, who is dealing with a shoulder and toe injury, which could have him below 100% for the matchup.

No matter who is on the field, the Cardinals' goal doesn't change. Winning every game is important, but divisional games matter more. This will be the Cardinals' first chance to see how they stack up with another NFC West team and follow it up with another in Week 4 vs. the Seattle Seahawks.

Purdy to Kittle for the TD!

The @49ers went 95 yards on their first drive of the season

SFvsSEA on FOXhttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/UdgcFW8fsp
— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2025