We have some bad news out of Santa Clara, as the 49ers announced they have placed Demarcus Dobbs on injured reserve. Dobbs injured his knee on a defensive play against the Dolphins and is done for the year. We have not heard the extent of the knee injury, so it remains to be seen what to expect heading into 2013.

This move combined with Brandon Jacobs suspension means the 49ers have a pair of roster spots open. As the 49ers consider their options heading into Sunday's game against the Patriots, we've already had quite a bit of discussion about the roster. This morning the discussion focused on Ray Edwards, Rock Cartwright and some practice squad options. Later in the day came word the 49ers worked out LB Matt McCoy. Matt Barrows is now reporting that McCoy did not pass his physical.

With two roster spots, there are a host of options available to the team. I suppose it is possible the team does not use both yet if they want to just have six players inactive on Sunday, instead of seven. Whatever the case, the team does need to plan on having some special teams depth active on Sunday. With Dobbs out, that is at least 15-20 special teams snaps to replace. If Tavares Gooden is banged up, it could be even more.