The San Francisco 49ers Appear To Be Nearing Full Strength

November 25, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) escapes a tackle by New Orleans Saints cornerback Jabari Greer (33) during the first quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The 49ers defeated the Saints 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

While most teams have been struggling to stay healthy over the last few weeks, the San Francisco 49ers are finally starting to get back to full strength. Last game, the first of the Niners’ reinforcements came last week in rookie defensive lineman Quinton Dial, who was activated off of the non-football injury list following his first week of practice. It would not be surprising to see him joined by another this week, as cornerback Eric Wright, defensive lineman Tank Carradine and wide receiver Mario Manningham seem to be on the verge of returning.

Speaking of Manningham, Matt Barrows reported that the wide receiver looked good in the Niners’ first padded practice of the week. His return could go a long way in alleviating the panic surrounding the much maligned receiving corps.

A surprise participant in Wednesday’s practice was rookie linebacker Nick Moody. Moody injured his hand in their Week 1 contest and was placed on injured reserve with the return designation. The designation means that Moody is able to be removed eight weeks later, which would mean during their bye week. His return to practice means that he will likely be activated when he is eligible.

As for players on the active roster, rookie receiver Quinton Patton remains out. Also, the Niners’ starting defensive line sat out Wednesday’s practice. Justin Smith is dealing with a shoulder issue and likely took a veteran’s day off. Glenn Dorsey and Ray McDonald are dealing with injuries and they got time off to keep them fresh for Sunday. Jon Baldwin sat out practice with an illness that popped up last week.

The Niners lucked out last week, as they avoided major injury problems with their starting safeties. Eric Reid and Donte Whitner both limped off the field with apparent leg injuries after Sunday’s game. Both appear to be over their injuries, as Whitner was listed as a full participant and Reid was not even listed on the injury report.

The Niners struggled with injuries during the early part of the season. Now, things seem to be bouncing back in their direction. This should allow them to maintain the momentum they are building, as fresh legs and bodies are being added to roster in key positions.

Out:
WR Quinton Patton (foot)

Did not participate in practice:
WR Jon Baldwin (illness)
DT Glenn Dorsey (hamstring)
DT Ray McDonald (biceps)
DT Justin Smith (shoulder)

Limited participation in practice:
G Alex Boone (shoulder)
T Anthony Davis (shoulder)
RB Frank Gore (ankle)
CB Carlos Rogers (knee)
LB Patrick Willis (groin)

Full participation in practice:
LB Navorro Bowman (wrist)
TE Vernon Davis (hamstring)
QB Colin Kaepernick (foot)
S Donte Whitner (knee)
WR Kyle Williams (knee)