The NFC Championship Game remains days away, which is likely the explanation for why a handful of key 49ers did not practice Wednesday.
Running backs Christian McCaffrey (bruised calf) and Elijah Mitchell (groin), and quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (foot) did not take part in the midweek session, while wide receiver Deebo Samuel (ankle) was limited. Speaking with reporters on Championship Wednesday, San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan initially said Samuel would not practice, but the former Pro Bowler got in some reps.
Samuel's injury is somewhat of a surprise, considering he hasn't missed a practice since returning from ankle and knee injuries to play in Week 18.
"It's been there for a little bit," Shanahan said of Samuel's ankle issue.
Samuel followed up Shanahan by telling reporters his ankle is sore, but he has no doubt he'll be on the field for Sunday's conference title showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles.
McCaffrey sustained a bruised calf in Sunday's Divisional Round win over the Dallas Cowboys, and could be seen attempting to stretch the affected calf on the sideline during the game. Mitchell suffered his groin injury in the same game, but still managed to carry the ball 14 times for 51 yards in the victory. San Francisco will hope both can get right in time to face another stingy defense this weekend.
Garoppolo's lack of participation shouldn't come as a surprise, considering how much time he's missed due to a foot injury that was initially believed to be a season-ending issue. Shanahan said Wednesday he does not expect Garoppolo to be able to play this weekend, and with rookie Brock Purdy remaining undefeated as a starter, it's not a pressing matter.
What remains urgent is a need to prepare to give the top-seeded Eagles their best shot with a chance to return the Super Bowl at stake. This group will dedicate itself to such an effort, as well as generous treatment and rehab with the goal of getting right before Sunday.
