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The 49ers only had two players with designations for this week’s game against the Cowboys. They ruled out quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (foot) and cornerback Ambry Thomas (ankle) for Sunday’s divisional round matchup.
However, both are nearing a return.
Garoppolo has shed his hiking boots and returned to the practice field this week for rehab work, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said Friday.
Garoppolo, who remains on the 53-player roster, has a “better chance” of returning to the Super Bowl if the 49ers get there than returning to a possible NFC Championship game next week.
“I would be surprised [if Garoppolo was available next week]but I guess it depends how the whole weekend goes and stuff, but I think there’s an outside chance,” Shanahan said.
Garoppolo broke his foot during the 49ers’ Week 13 game against the Dolphins.
If the 49ers keep winning, Garoppolo could return to assist rookie Brock Purdy. Josh Johnson, who joined the team after Garoppolo’s injury, is currently the No. 2 quarterback.
He started in 10 games this season and the 49ers went 7-3 as Garoppolo threw for 16 touchdowns and four interceptions.
He will become a free agent this spring and is expected to play elsewhere next season.
Shanahan said Thomas could return next week.
“I think there’s a chance,” he said.