The San Francisco 49ers released their Thursday practice participation report for Week 15, and quarterback Colin Kaepernick was added with a neck injury. Kaepernick was listed as a “full” participant, so it would not seem to be anything significant. However, there was an interesting development amongst the quarterbacks. Well, interesting for a team that is 1-12.
ESPN’s Nick Wagoner reported that quarterback Christian Ponder got some reps in practice with the offense. Through the first 14 weeks, Ponder has served as the scout team quarterback. That means he plays as the opposing team’s quarterback to give the 49ers defense the proper looks in practice. This week marked the first time that we have heard that Ponder has gotten reps with the 49ers offense.
Ponder did not give up anything about what it could mean for Sunday. He told Wagoner, "I don't know what the plan is yet, we haven't really talked about it, but I did get some reps this week ... I'm excited about that, trying to make the best of it."
It is possible the 49ers are just being careful in case Kaepernick’s neck injury ends up a problem. It is also possible Ponder might replace Blaine Gabbert as the backup quarterback. Chip Kelly had his final press session earlier this afternoon, and we won’t hear from him again until after Sunday’s game. Ponder has been active inactive each of the first 13 games, so we’ll see what Sundays inactives bring at 11:35 a.m. PT.