The San Francisco 49ers are running through their second practice of the week, and as we head into the weekend, it seems less and less likely we see linebacker Reuben Foster playing this Monday against the New York Giants.
Foster, Jaquiski Tartt, and Pierre Garçon all sat out another day of practice, marking the second straight day for all three players. If Foster cannot go, Elijah Lee and Mark Nzeocha would see more work. If Tartt can’t play, Tyvis Powell would likely get the start at strong safety. If Garçon cannot go, Kendrick Bourne likely moves into the starting lineup.
The 49ers will be playing after a ten-day layoff following Week 9 Thursday Night Football. After they face the Giants, the 49ers will then have a bye in Week 11. It opens the door for plenty of rest for banged up players, and these three might end up getting that extra rest.
Prior to practice, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh was asked about striking the balance of getting Foster on the field to get reps, or giving him the extra time this week and through the bye to get healthy.
“Reuben’s got to get healthy. That’s first and foremost. When he’s healthy, he’s a fantastic football player. And so for Reuben, all of his energy and focus right now, with regards to his body, is with Ray and Ferg. Obviously mentally, he’s in all of the meetings.”
Saleh would not commit to anything about Monday, other than to say they want to see how the week progresses, and it’s important for Foster to “get right.”
49ers Friday practice participation report
DNP: TE Garrett Celek (not injury related), LB Reuben Foster (hamstring), WR Pierre Garcon (knee), S Jaquiski Tartt (shoulder)
Limited: TE George Kittle (chest), C Weston Richburg (knee)
Full: G Joshua Garnett (thumb), T Joe Staley (not injury related)
Giants Friday practice participation report
Full: WR Jawill Davis (concussion), LB Alec Ogletree (hamstring), T Chad Wheeler (ankle)