The San Francisco 49ers’ injury woes seem to be largely behind them entering their second practice of the opening week of the season.
The San Francisco Chronicle’s Noah Furtado noted from p49ers’ John Lynch says they’re working on a long-term deal with Jauan Jenningsractice that defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos and wide receiver Jordan Watkins were in uniform for Thursday’s session after missing Wednesday with injuries.
Advertisement
Gross-Matos has been dealing with a knee injury that landed him on the PUP list to start training camp. He was activated at final cuts, but a non-participant in the first practice leading to some question about his potential availability in Week 1 and the foreseeable future.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan on the Wednesday after final cuts that there was hope Gross-Matos would be ready for the season opener in Seattle.
“Yeah, he’s possible for Week 1,” Shanahan said. “We expect him to get out and start practicing here next week. But we’ve been working him out like he’s going to play Week 1. He’s been handling that well. Hopefully that’ll continue and he’ll be out there on Sunday.”
Even a limited Thursday session opens the door for Gross-Matos to contribute on the 49ers’ defensive line against the Seahawks.
Advertisement
Watkins’ return is a little unexpected. He sustained a high ankle sprain in the preseason opener on Aug. 9 and was expected to miss one month. Even if he can’t suit up for the opener, a couple of extra practices will be helpful for the rookie if the team intends on having him available in Week 2 vs. the New Orleans Saints.
The rookie fourth-round pick missed significant time and reps, so those additional practice reps could be crucial in getting him up to speed in time to contribute.
More 49ers: 49ers’ John Lynch says they’re working on a long-term deal with Jauan Jennings
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers injuries: Entire 53-man roster available for 2nd Week 1 practice
