Cornerback Nate Clements did not practice today – heck, he did not practice all week – after undergoing surgery to insert one pin and two screws into his broken right thumb.
Mike Singletary only revealed today Clements underwent surgery after being asked specifically about it. He previously said Clements had a slight fracture of his thumb.
Clements has the second-longest active streak among NFL cornerbacks with 116 starts and 124 games played.
Clements is officially listed as “questionable” for Sunday’s game against the Jets. A decision must be made 90 minutes prior to game time whether Clements will suit up. Singletary said the decision will be based on a combination of how Clements feels and what the team doctors say.
Clements, who has a cast on his right hand, said he wants to play, but he said the doctors will “help me make the right decision.”
If Clements can’t play, the 49ers will turn to either Donald Strickland or Tarell Brown. Both would be on the field, along with starting corner Walt Harris, when the Jets go with three wideouts.
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INJURY REPORT
49ers: PR/KR Allen Rossum (ankle) is doubtful.
Clements (thumb) is questionable.
WR Arnaz Battle (foot), WR Josh Morgan (groin), S Dashon Goldson (knee) and S Michael Lewis (abdomen) are probable.
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