Sherman back at practice
Chris Biderman
SANTA CLARA — Richard Sherman on Wednesday was back on the practice field for the first time since early September.
The 49ers All-Pro cornerback, who’s missed the last eight games with a calf injury, had his practice window opened this week giving him an outside chance to play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, though it’s more likely Sherman returns to game action following San Francisco’s bye to play the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 29.
“Dr. Sherm thinks he’s got a chance this week,” head coach Kyle Shanahan said. “I’ve been around him enough that’s why I don’t count him out on that. But my goal is hopefully get back him back by the Rams (game).”
Sherman has three weeks to get activated off injured reserve or be shut down for the season. He’s been one of many key players the 49ers have lost for extended periods during their injury-ravaged campaign.
Shanahan indicated Sherman was likely to get scout team reps this week as he works back into football shape following his two months away, indicating Jason Verrett and Emmanuel Moseley would continue getting the majority of reps with the starters.
Sherman was initially expected to return in October, but the irratation in his calf lingered and required unspecified injections to ease inflammation, which took multiple weeks to take effect.
When Sherman returns, he likely won’t be playing with two key members of the secondary.
Strong safety Jaquiski Tartt was placed on injured reserve Wednesday with a case of turf toe. He sustained the injury during last week’s blowout loss to the Packers in his first game back from a groin injury that cost him two games.
The 49ers are also expecting another prolonged absence from slot cornerback K’Waun Williams, who suffered a high-ankle sprain and likely won’t be available for the foreseeable future. The 49ers have to hold a roster spot for Williams in order for him to play again this season because he’s already been given the return exception off injured reserve following a knee injury.
• Despite optimism about a return last week, Shanahan on Wednesday ruled out running back Raheem Mostert, who has been out since Oct. 18 with a high-ankle sprain, for the Saints game. Shanahan also said Tevin Coleman won’t play after re-injuring his knee Nov. 1 against the Seattle seahawks. Both players are expected back following the bye coming after the trip to New Orleans.
• Receiver Kendrick Bourne this week was placed back on the reserve/COVID19 list after going on and off the list last week causing him to miss the Packers game.