The 49ers will be missing a pair of key players in the middle of their defense during Thursday night’s game against the Oakland Raiders — and other starters will be game-time decisions.
The team announced Wednesday linebacker Reuben Foster (hamstring) and strong safety Jaquiski Tartt (shoulder) will not play. Additionally, quarterback C.J. Beathard (right wrist), cornerback Richard Sherman (calf, heel), running backs Matt Breida (ankle) and Raheem Mostert (ankle), receiver Pierre Garçon and center Weston Richburg (knee) are listed as questionable.
Foster’s injury makes it likely Malcolm Smith returns to play in Foster’s “Will” linebacker spot after spending the bulk of the season working as the “Sam” on the strong side of formations.