The San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles will square off in Philly this weekend in the NFL's Week 4. Right now, though, both squads are hoping to get key contributors back before the game. According to Matt Maiocco, running back Frank Gore, receiver Michael Crabtree, and safety Donte Whitner were all limited during Wednesday's practice.
Gore sprained his ankle during last week's 13-8 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals but played through the pain. He is a little dinged up from the sprain, but Gore's limited status on Wednesday is likely just a precaution to ensure that he feels at or near full strength come Sunday.
Crabtree, meanwhile, played extensively in Sunday's game against the Bengals. He dealt with a foot injury during the preseason and through the first few games of the regular season, and it is likely that he was limited on Wednesday so as to preserve his health. Crabtree is still working himself up to game speed, and it is imperative that the 49ers don't rush him back too quickly.
Whitner experienced a hip contusion against the Bengals and is trying to work his way back for this week's game. He should be good to go by the time the game kicks off on Sunday, but re-aggravation of the injury or an unexpected setback could threaten his chances.
On the other side of the ball, Eagles quarterback Michael Vick has stated he will play on Sunday. Vick is dealing with a deep bone bruise on his right hand but was a full participant in Wednesday's practice. Nothing is certain with Vick yet, and you have to wonder how cautious the Eagles will be with their quarterback on Sunday given that he has left the field in back-to-back games with injuries.
In the case of Whitner and Vick, there chances of playing on Sunday will become more apparent as the week progresses. Check back with SB Nation Bay Area in the coming days to monitor the status of these players.