Defense short-handed as 49ers gear up for Cardinals

The San Francisco 49ers find themselves shorthanded on the defensive side of the football as the team begins preparing for its Week 15 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Five defensive players won't participate in the Niners' first of three practices this week.

Defensive tackle Arik Armstead was among the 49ers' seven inactive players this past weekend against the Seattle Seahawks due to foot and knee injuries. He will not practice on Wednesday and isn't expected to be suited up against the Cardinals.

The other defensive players sidelined on Wednesday are defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (hamstring), cornerback Charvarius Ward (groin), linebacker Dre Greenlaw (ankle, hip), and linebacker Oren Burks (knee), all of whom sustained their injuries against the Seahawks.

On the offensive side, tight end Ross Dwelley continues to miss time due to a high-ankle sprain. Offensive linemen Spencer Burford (knee) and Trent Williams (rest day) will also sit out practice.

When asked about the challenge of practicing with so many players missing, head coach Kyle Shanahan responded, "Not as bad at this time of year just because we're going half-speed anyways on Wednesdays, regardless. If this was earlier in the year, we'd probably have to go half-speed just by default."

Shanahan added that the increased practice squad sizes compared to years ago also aid in such situations.

Cornerback Darrell Luter, previously inactive due to a hamstring injury, is set to be a full participant in practice. Running back Elijah Mitchell, attempting to return from a knee injury, will be limited.