The San Francisco 49ers returned to the practice field on Friday for the team's final on-field session before hosting the Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship Game on Sunday. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who did not practice on Wednesday due to a shoulder injury but was a limited participant on Thursday, practiced for the second consecutive day.
Deebo Samuel back practicing for the #49ers… And they played @Eminem 's "lose yourself" - musical fun ahead of Championship Sunday pic.twitter.com/gfktnUyBFU
— Omar Ruiz (@OmarDRuiz) January 26, 2024
While Friday's sessions are usually the lightest of the week, Samuel's continued involvement instills confidence within the building that the receiver could be healthy enough to suit up against the Lions.
Watched Deebo Samuel during the first two periods of practice. He caught two balls over his head and otherwise looked like he was fine. It's looking very much like he'll play on Sunday. The question will be contact – how much will his shoulder be able to take.
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) January 26, 2024
Samuel's injury forced him to exit last weekend's playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, and the 49ers offense struggled for much of the matchup without the star receiver in the lineup.
Fortunately, quarterback Brock Purdy orchestrated a 69-yard game-winning touchdown drive during the closing minutes, leading the 49ers to a 24-21 victory and advancing the team to the NFC Championship Game.
"I think [it's] very much a fluid situation," general manager John Lynch said on Thursday. "It's the NFC Championship, though, and I can promise you this: Deebo is going to be doing everything he can, and he'll be wanting to play by the end."
The 49ers will release their official game status report after practice.