The 49ers on Thursday got a couple of key defensive players back in practice. Linebacker Kwon Alexander and Richie James, both nursing ankle injuries, were limited participants after sitting out Wednesday’s session.
Alexander suffered a high ankle sprain in the 49ers’ loss to Miami and hasn’t suited up since. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated he could be bound for Injured Reserve, but he never went on the injured list. His limited participation doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll play Sunday in Seattle, but the team could be setting him on track to face the Packers on Thursday night in Week 9.
James was banged up in the Week 7 win over the Patriots. There was never a report on the severity of his ankle injury, but the fact he only missed one day of practice is a good sign. James isn’t very involved in the offense, but he handles all the kick return duties so having him back would be good for San Francisco’s special teams unit.
Here’s the full practice participation report for Thursday. Jason Verrett was back in action as well after a veteran day off to start the week.
Did not participate
WR Richie James (ankle)
WR Deebo Samuel (hamstring)
SS Jaquiski Tartt (groin)
RB Jeffery Wilson (ankle)
Limited participation
LB Kwon Alexander (ankle)
FS Jimmie Ward (quad)
Full participation
CB Jason Verrett (non-injury)