49ers preview: Can Mullens outscore Bucs without top WRs Goodwin and Garcon?
By Chris Wilson
49ers injury news
The San Francisco 49ers have a fairly short injury report for today’s matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the team returns to action after their Week 11 bye.
Linebacker Reuben Foster was the only player listed as questionable for today’s game on San Francisco’s official injury report. However, after Foster was arrested last night at the team hotel, he will not play for San Francisco today — or ever again — as the 49ers announced they released their 2017 first-round draft pick early this morning.
With Foster out, multi-purpose linebacker Malcolm Smith is the best bet to start for the Niners at WILL linebacker, although LB Elijah Lee is likely the better option in Week 12 and going forward.
With Garcon out and Goodwin doubtful for Sunday’s matchup, the 49ers will be extremely light at the receiver position, and particularly on the outside. Along with Pettis and Bourne, wideouts, Trent Taylor and Richie James should see an increased number of snaps today. Update: Goodwin is officially inactive.
Backup guard Joshua Garnett is officially out for today’s game with a thumb injury. Offensive lineman Eric Magnuson, who can play anywhere on the offensive line, will be the team’s backup interior lineman.
Center Weston Richburg was a full-go in practice on both Thursday and Friday after the lineman was limited in Wednesday’s practice, and will start for San Francisco in today’s game.
49ers injury news will be updated throughout the day, as information is released.