SANTA CLARA –- Tight end Vance McDonald took part in limited practice on Thursday, opening the door that he could be available for the 49ers on Sunday.
McDonald sustained a hip injury in the first half of the 49ers' game Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. He did not practice on Wednesday.
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But McDonald's return to limited work on Thursday seems to increase the possibility he will be able to play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. In three games, McDonald has five receptions for 93 yards and a team-leading two touchdowns.
Backup tight end Garrett Celek also saw limited practice time with a back injury, which he sustained in the second half against the Seahawks. Celek has five catches for 53 yards.
Cornerback Jimmie Ward did not practice. He is expected to miss multiple games with a right quadriceps strain.
49ers participation report
Did not participate
CB Jimmie Ward (quadricep)
Limited
TE Vance McDonald (hip)
TE Garrett Celek (back)
Full participation
DT Arik Armstead (shoulder)
S Marcus Cromartie (ankle)
CB Chris Davis (quadricep)
DT Quinton Dial (knee)
DT Glenn Dorsey (knee)
DT Mike Purcell (ankle)
CB Keith Reaser (ankle)
WR Torrey Smith (foot)
S Jaquiski Tartt (knee)
G Andrew Tiller (ankle)
