The NFC championship game, set for Sunday, features a high-stakes encounter between the first-seeded San Francisco 49ers and the third-seeded Detroit Lions. A few players from both teams are injured ahead of their game. Amidst the build-up to this eagerly anticipated matchup, concerns loom large because of injuries plaguing key players.

A recent update by 49ers’ coach Kyle Shanahan regarding the health of a pivotal player has intensified worries among supporters. Sadly, Deebo Samuel is injured ahead of his next game. So, is he playing in the next game?

Uncertainty surrounds Deebo Samuel’s status

As the 49ers gear up for their critical NFC Championship showdown against the Lions, the spotlight turns to their 2021 All-Pro receiver, Deebo Samuel. Previously, he was sidelined with a shoulder injury in last week’s win over the Packers. Due to that, Samuel’s role in the upcoming game is shrouded in uncertainty.

The team’s coach, Kyle Shanahan, maintained a cautious stance and noted Samuel’s improvement but stopped short of confirming his participation for Sunday. This ambiguity is echoed in Adam Schefter’s recent Instagram post. He added a post on Instagram, captioning, “49ers’ WR Deebo Samuel will not practice today and his status for Sunday’s NFC Championship Game remains uncertain, per Kyle Shanahan.”

Despite the negative x-rays, Samuel’s absence from Wednesday’s practice raises concerns. Many might be worried, but one man is still optimistic about Deebo joining in the next game. He is none other than star wide receiver Jerry Rice.

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Jerry Rice optimistic about Samuel’s return

Jerry Rice recently appeared on “95.7 The Game” and commented on Deebo Samuel’s situation ahead of the NFC Championship. Samuel injured his shoulder in a Week 6 game against the Browns and didn’t join his team for Wednesday’s practice.

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However, Rice remains optimistic. “He’s gonna be ready to play,” Rice confidently stated, referencing his own resilience through 189 consecutive games and a career spanning into his 40s. However, NFL insider Ian Rapoport has highlighted Samuel’s current struggle. He noted that the 28-year-old is “struggling to regain full movement” in his shoulder.

Now, as the game is so near, what do you think? Will he play? Let us know below.

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