It looks like the San Francisco 49ers (9-1) receiving core will be at or close to full strength on Sunday night when the team heads onto the field for its NFC showdown with the Green Bay Packers (8-2). Both tight end George Kittle (knee, ankle) and rookie wide receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder) are expected to play, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Both were listed as "questionable" for the game.


That leaves veteran receiver Emmanuel Sanders (ribs), whose status for Sunday night remains unclear, as the only remaining player listed as "questionable." Although, most who have observed him this week expect him to play.

Kittle has not played since sustaining his injuries during Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals.

"Every game is a big game," Kittle told reporters after Thursday's practice, "but definitely an 8-2 Packers team coming in, definitely a battle for the NFC. It's definitely a massive game, and it's one I don't want to miss."


Samuel's injury took place last weekend during the rematch with the Cardinals while Sanders was hurt during Week 10 against the Seattle Seahawks.

All three players missed practice on Wednesday, were limited during Thursday and Friday's sessions, and were expected to be game-day decisions.

The only 49ers players ruled out for Sunday night's game are defensive end Dee Ford (quadricep, hamstring) and tackle Joe Staley (finger). Running back Matt Breida (ankle) and kicker Robbie Gould (right quadricep) are listed as "doubtful," with many feeling that neither will play against the Packers.

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