The 49ers and Giants released their first practice participation reports of the week and the big news for the 49ers is that Delanie Walker was back on the practice field. Since breaking his jaw in Week 16, Walker has been sitting out practice. He finally was cleared to return to practice, which is huge.
Walker wore a black no-contact jersey to start practice, but before long had returned to his normal red jersey. If he is able to play with the contact in practice that's a big step forward. Walker led the team in receiving against the Giants back in week ten thanks in part to the sometimes inconsistent Giants linebackers. After Saturday's 49ers-Saints game, I'd imagine the Giants will do whatever it takes to keep VD from beating them. I wouldn't be surprised to see him doubled by a linebacker and safety frequently. It will be key for other skill players to step up if Davis is taken out of the game.
A noteworthy no-show on the practice participation report is Ray McDonald, who was dealing with a hamstring injury last week. Normally an every-down player, McDonald was not a full participant in Saturday's game. He is not on this first injury report, which is good news. The 49ers have a very solid backup in Ricky Jean Francois but ideally McDonald will be in and 100%.
49ers Practice Participation Report
Did Not Participate: WR Ted Ginn Jr. (knee), S Dashon Goldson (ankle), C Jonathan Goodwin (calf)
Limited Participation: TE Delanie Walker (jaw)
Giants Practice Participation Report
Did Not Participate: RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot)
Limited Participation: LB Mark Herzlich (ankle), QB Eli Manning (illness), DE Justin Tuck (shoulder), DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle, knee), CB Corey Webster (hamstring)