49ers Jim Harbaugh says Michael Crabtree ‘close’ to returning
By Bryan Rose
Coming into Week 11, there were faint rumors that wide receiver Michael Crabtree could be a surprise play. But after Crabtree missed some practice, those rumors were quickly smashed and Crabtree was not on the field for San Francisco’s loss to the New Orleans Saints.
Despite that, according to 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, Crabtree, who has missed the first eleven weeks of the season is ‘close’ to returning though Harbaugh would not commit to a Week 12 return, which will take place Monday night against the Washington Redskins:
"Harbaugh said he thinks Michael Crabree “is close” to playing. He would not say whether the WR will play Monday vs. #Redskins."
Whenever Crabtree does return, it’s expected San Francisco will slowly work him in as he’s likely to be put on a restricted snap count for at least one week, possibly more.
Given the lack of production from San Francisco’s wide receivers this season, the 49ers will want (more like need) a healthy Crabtree for a late season/playoff push.