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The 49ers released their Week 16 inactive reports, and as expected, 49ers defensive lineman Justin Smith will be inactive. This snaps Smith's streak of 185 consecutive games started. He was third among all active players, trailing only Ronde Barber (213) and London Fletcher (197).
That is a big deal, but not as big a deal as what this could mean for the 49ers defensive front. Ricky Jean-Francois will get the start in his place, and I imagine we will see him getting tested quite frequently by Marshawn Lynch. This also means Ian Williams is active for the second time this season. RJF is normally the backup at all three defensive line positions. His presence on the line means Williams will provide backup help at nose tackle, while Will Tukuafu will be the primary backup at defensive end.
In other news, wide receiver Mario Manningham is active for Sunday Night Football, after missing two weeks with a shoulder injury. This sends A.J. Jenkins back to the inactive list.
49ers inactives: Justin Smith, Clark Haggans, A.J. Jenkins, Trenton Robinson, Jewel Hampton, Joe Looney, Scott Tolzien