Kyle Shanahan: Jimmie Ward doubtful; George Kittle and Aaron Lynch questionable

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan met with the media on Friday afternoon, which is the last time he will meet with the media prior to Sunday's home game against the Carolina Panthers. He provided an update on some key injuries heading into the matchup.

All week, the same three players have been listed on the 49ers' practice participation reports. They are safety Jimmie Ward, tight end George Kittle, and edge defender Aaron Lynch. Ward and Kittle are healing with hamstring injuries while Lynch has a back injury.

Shanahan told reporters Ward would be listed as doubtful for Sunday's game. That likely means the free safety will not play against the Panthers. He received his most extensive work during Friday's practice. While unlikely, Shanahan did not dismiss the possibility that Ward might play.

"He's done a little more each day and he's getting healthier each day," Shanahan said. "That's why I do think he has a chance to go this week but I will say that we're listing him as doubtful. So it's an outside chance but he has improved each day."

Safeties Jaquiski Tartt and Lorenzo Jerome have been competing to replace Ward if he is unavailable on Sunday. Shanahan said it is not just a two-man competition but that defensive back Adrian Colbert is also in the mix.

"Colbert's in that too," Shanahan said. "It's been a good competition. I have a pretty good idea who's leading it but I won't know for sure until kickoff."

As for Kittle and Lynch, Shanahan confirmed the two will be listed as questionable when the 49ers' official injury report is released this afternoon.