For the second day in a row, San Francisco 49ers DE DeForest Buckner (foot) didn't practice. He was injured during the 49ers' 24-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.
"He's day-to-day right now and we're still optimistic for Thursday for him," 49ers defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil said today regarding Buckner. However, Buckner is still in a walking boot which casts doubt on his availability for Thursday.
Also injured against the Cowboys, WR Jeremy Kerley (ankle) returned to practice today after sitting out yesterday's walkthrough. Kerley was acquired via a trade with the Detroit Lions on August 28 and leads the team in receiving with 18 catches for 202 yards and a touchdown. The next closest 49ers player isn't even a receiver. TE Garrett Celek is second on the team in receiving with 10 catches for 131 yards.
CB Jimmie Ward continues to miss practice after suffering a quad injury against during Week 3 against the Seattle Seahawks. He is reportedly week-to-week.
Of course, the 49ers suffered a devastating loss on Sunday when ILB NaVorro Bowman, the clear leader on defense, went down with a non-contact injury against the Cowboys. An MRI on Monday confirmed what many feared – that the Pro Bowl and All-Pro inside linebacker suffered an Achilles tear and will miss the remainder of the season.
The 49ers have a short week as they prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday night at Levi's Stadium.
San Francisco 49ers Tuesday Practice
Did Not Practice
LB NaVorro Bowman (achilles), DT DeForest Buckner (foot), CB Jimmie Ward (quadricep)
Limited Participation
G Zane Beadles (ankle), CB Chris Davis (quadricep), WR Jeremy Kerley (ankle), TE Vance McDonald (hip)
Full Participation
DT Arik Armstead (shoulder), S Marcus Cromartie (ankle), DT Quinton Dial (knee), DT Glenn Dorsey (knee), DT Mike Purcell (ankle), CB Keith Reaser (knee), S Jaquiski Tartt (knee), G Andrew Tiller (ankle)
Arizona Cardinals Tuesday Practice
Did Not Practice
TE Darren Fells (shoulder), QB Carson Palmer (concussion), DT Ed Stinson (toe)
Limited Participation
CB Justin Bethel (foot), T D.J. Humphries (ankle), DT Josh Mauro (chest), DT Frostee Rucker (knee)
Not Listed
S Tyvon Brach (groin), P Drew Butler (left calf), RB Chris Johnson (groin)