It's hard to imagine the San Francisco 49ers being in a good position injury-wise when they take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, but things at wide receiver may be at least a little better than expected.
WR Jauan Jennings, who missed Week 5 with ankle and rib injuries, returned to practice Thursday after missing Wednesday's practice. He also missed all three practices in Week 5. Teammate WR Ricky Pearsall has still not participated in practice, according to reporters on the team's scene, but Jennings' return suggests he has a chance to play in Week 6 against Tampa Bay.
Jennings' return is a huge boost for the 49ers' receiving corps, which lost two of its top receivers in a Week 5 win over the Los Angeles Rams. Senior Kendrick Bourne leads the way with 10 receptions on 11 targets for 142 yards. The remaining WR players had 4 catches on 11 targets for 48 yards. Before the injury, Jennings had nine catches for 129 yards and one touchdown in three games. He also missed Week 3 with an ankle injury suffered in Week 2.
Following practice, the 49ers will release a full practice participation report. Even if Jennings' appearance is limited, it bodes well for his chances of playing on Sunday.
MORE 49ERS: 49ers All-Pro says rookie teammate had one of the best games he's ever seen against Rams