49ers injury news vs. Cardinals: Samson Ebukam returns

The 49ers look to get some more injury reinforcements, including Samson Ebukam, ahead of their Monday Night Football game in Mexico against the Cardinals.

Sometimes, one extra day can mean the difference between sitting out a game and being able to suit up.

Perhaps that’s the case for San Francisco 49ers edge rusher Samson Ebukam, who missed the Niners’ Week 11 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers because of quad and Achilles injuries. And while this meant rookie EDGE Drake Jackson would see an uptick in snaps in Ebukam’s absence, the reality is San Francisco’s pass-rushing depth is better with Ebukam in the mix.

Especially if he’s able to take pressure off Pro Bowl EDGE Nick Bosa.

Ebukam and the 49ers get to wait an extra day for their Week 11 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, a Monday Night Football game in Mexico City. And, in an attempt to acclimate to the extreme altitude at Estadio Azteca, the Niners engaged in practices in the over-a-mile-high city of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Despite missing the first day of practice, Ebukam returned to action on Friday and could potentially be cleared for the game if he’s able to make it through Saturday’s practices.

While there are other players dealing with injuries, San Francisco appears to be about as healthy as it has been since the start of the season, which bodes well for both the second-half stretch and dealing with the challenges of playing at altitude this Monday.

49ers still without Javon Kinlaw, likely without Arik Armstead

Earlier in the week, head coach Kyle Shanahan told KNBR 680 (h/t 49ers Webzone) that defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw (knee) wouldn’t be activated off injured reserve in time for Monday’s game, also adding, “Even if he had a chance to, we wouldn’t risk it with all the flying here, going to this altitude and stuff.”

Kinlaw hasn’t played since Week 3 when the Niners faced the Denver Broncos.

However, signs are looking a bit more optimistic for fellow defensive tackle Arik Armstead, who has been out since Week 4 with foot and ankle injuries.

Read More: 49ers vs. Cardinals: Week 11 betting odds, prediction for Monday night

Shanahan didn’t rule Armstead out from Monday’s contest, although San Francisco hasn’t placed the defensive tackle on injured reserve, rather it has simply relegated him an inactive each week since.

However, it wouldn’t be surprising if the 49ers were a bit more cautious and waited until after Monday to get Armstead back on the field.

The Niners and Cardinals kick off their Monday Night Football matchup on Nov. 21, 8:15 p.m. ET from Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico.