SANTA CLARA -- Linebacker Brock Coyle started 10 games for the 49ers last season, but he was expected to fall back into a role as a core special-teams player this season.
But it's looking more and more possible that Coyle will be back in the 49ers' starting lineup in Sunday's season opener against the Minnesota Vikings.
Veteran linebacker Malcolm Smith is listed as doubtful after going through limited practice this week because of a hamstring injury sustained in the 49ers' Aug. 9 preseason opener.
Smith missed all of last season with a torn pectoral after signing a five-year, $26.