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Fooch's Update: The Matts have tweeted the team has a roster exemption until November 17. However, if the 49ers have him active this weekend against the Giants, they will have to clear a roster spot. I suspect they wait until Saturday for the move.
The NFL has officially reinstated Aldon Smith from the suspended list, and he is expected back at practice today. Jim Harbaugh said on Monday that he anticipated Smith being back for practice this week, and that appears to be official. Matt Maiocco reported Smith will re-join the team this afternoon for their first walk-through practice. Maiocco also tweeted that the 49ers will be granted a brief roster exemption, so it might be a day or two before we hear a corresponding roster move.
Smith has been taking part in team meetings and doing strength and conditioning work. Suspended players normally are not allowed to join the team in any such activities, but Smith was able to negotiate that into his suspension. While the lost nine games sucks, it is huge that he was able to stick around the facility. He could have stayed in shape away from the team, but I believe it was important to keep him in a structure environment. He is up to speed on the game planning, and all indications are that he is in great shape.
Smith is expected to play this weekend against the New York Giants, although it remains to be seen what his role will be. My guess is he does not play a full workload, but rotates in with Aaron Lynch and Ahmad Brooks. We also don't know the status of Dan Skuta's ankle.
Whatever the case, I hope Eli is ready.