Santa Clara— Running back Christian McCaffrey returned to practice Tuesday as the 49ers prepared for Saturday's NFC playoff divisional round game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium. Before the 49ers' first playoff game, McCaffrey, who led the NFL with 1,459 yards running, rested for two weeks to mend a moderate right calf strain.
“I think he’s geared-up and ready to go, same way he was last year, probably in his playoff game when he was 5, too, or a scrimmage,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said. “Christian is constant. He constantly awaits that moment.”
McCaffrey, rookie safety Ji'Ayir Brown, and wide receiver Jauan Jennings were cleared to practice. Jennings missed the final three games of the regular season with a concussion, while Brown missed two with a knee ailment. The lone 49er projected to miss the Packers game is defensive end Clelin Ferrell, who injured his knee in Week 18's defeat to the Rams.
The 49ers re-signed defensive end Austin Bryant to the practice squad Tuesday. The 27-year-old played two games for San Francisco this season and may battle with rookie Robert Beal for the fourth defensive end spot behind Nick Bosa, Chase Young, and Randy Gregory in workouts this week.
The 49ers waived running back Jeremy McNichols to add Bryant to the practice squad. Shanahan said linebacker Dre Greenlaw (Achilles) and safety Logan Ryan (groin) will miss practice on Tuesday but should play on Saturday.
Shanahan expects Greenlaw to practice Wednesday. Shanahan added, “We pushed him hard (Monday) so we wanted him to take a day off before we push him again.
Defensive tackle Arik Armstead is back at practice after missing the last five regular-season games with foot and knee ailments. He was limited on Tuesday but should be ready for the playoffs.
The 49ers might activate safety and special-teams star George Odum off injured reserve. Torn biceps required surgery in late November. Tuesday's 49ers injury report: