49ers Playmaker Surprisingly Returns To Practice Before Patriots Game

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters last week he expected Deebo Samuel to "probably miss a couple weeks" due to a calf strain.

Well, Samuel's absence might be capped at one game.

The star wide receiver was spotted on San Francisco's practice field Thursday, according to multiple reports.

At the time this story was published, it wasn't yet known how much Samuel participated. But the fact he was back on the field signals as a step in the right direction.

Samuel recorded 13 catches for 164 yards in two games this season.

The 49ers are set to host the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium on Sunday. The return of Samuel, especially since Christian McCaffrey is out and George Kittle is banged up, would be a huge lift for San Fran's offense.