49ers vs. Giants injury report: Hakeem Nicks, Martellus Bennett getting in some work

The 49ers and Giants will square off on Sunday, and we have some pertinent injury information coming down the pike. The two teams will release their final injury reports Friday afternoon, but in the meantime, we've got Wednesday and Thursday practice participation reports.

At this point, Rocky Bernard, Andre Brown and Kenny Phillips would appear to be unlikely to play, as they have sat out both days of practice. Today will give us a bit more insight as we wait for practice reports. The most pertinent of the losses would be Bernard. Although he is nearing the end of the road, he brings a solid veteran presence. When I chatted with Ed from Big Blue View, he mentioned the struggling Giants pass rush. While Bernard has not done much to help, I'll take more backups with that unit every which way.

The big names on the Giants injury report are WR Hakeem Nicks, TE Martellus Bennett, CB Corey Webster and LB Chase Blackburn. All four sat out Wednesday's practice and returned in limited fashion for Thursday's practice.

The biggest issues surround Hakeem Nicks and Martellus Bennett. Nicks has missed three games due to knee and foot issues. Today's practice will be key for his potential return, so we'll keep an eye out. Vic Fangio made a good point in his press conference yesterday, pointing out that this Giants offensive system has been able to plug and play with various parts. The Giants would love to have Nicks back, but as we've seen, they can mix in receiving talent to make up for his loss.

As for Martellus Bennett? He hyperextended his knee against the Browns, but did manage to return primarily in blocking duties. He wants to play but isn't sure if that will happen. My guess is he will be listed as questionable and will be a game-time decision.