The 49ers promoted defensive lineman TY McGill and running back Jeremy McNichols from the practice squad on Saturday ahead of their Week 15 game against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at State Farm Stadium.
Arik Armstead (foot/knee) and Javon Hargrave (hamstring) are both out, putting interior line responsibility firmly on the shoulders of Javon Kinlaw, Kevin Givens and Kalia Davis, as well as McGill.
Kinlaw's production has improved significantly after a healthy offseason. The former first-round draft pick has recorded 2.5 sacks, 18 tackles – 11 solo, three for a loss – and five quarterback hits in the 2023 NFL season. The strong tackle also broke up three passes in his 13 games.
On the offensive side of the ball, McNichols will provide depth behind Christian McCaffrey in the absence of Elijah Mitchell, who is sidelined with a knee injury. JP Mason will also likely be seen on offense, along with special teams as usual.
McNichols, who spent time with the 49ers in 2017, appeared in one game this season but was on the field for just six special teams plays in the team's Week 14 win over the Seattle Seahawks.
While both Oren Burks (knee) and Ross Dwelley (ankle) are out, 49ers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks said Thursday that Dre Greenlaw (hip) is expected to play.
General manager John Lynch said during his weekly KNBR appearance on Friday that Charvarius Ward also has a chance to return to the field after playing just four snaps against Seattle in Week 14 due to a groin injury.
Offensive players Spencer Burford (knee) and Aaron Banks (hip) are also questionable.
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