No word on Eagles' Westbrook

SANTA CLARA — The Philadelphia Eagles come to town Sunday on a two-game losing streak, and they don’t know whether they’ll have the services of Brian Westbrook.

Westbrook did not practice Wednesday with two broken ribs. Coach Andy Reid was noncommittal when asked about his star running back’s availability against the 49ers at Candlestick Park.

“We’ll see how he does here in the next couple of days,” Reid said.

Westbrook, a seven-year veteran, was named a starter on the NFC Pro Bowl team last season. He has gained 2,550 yards rushing over the past two seasons with 167 receptions for 1,470 yards.

“As a premier player, if you’re healthy, you’re that much better than everybody else,” 49ers linebacker Takeo Spikes, who played for the Eagles last season. “Even if you do get hurt and you’re a step slow, you’re still that much better than everybody else, and we understand that coming into the game. Just his presence alone out there on the field will make the Eagles a better team.”

If Westbrook plays on Sunday, he’ll likely have the benefits of a painkilling injection, as well as additional padding on his ribs.

Spikes was asked if he will target Westbrook’s ribs on Sunday.

“I wouldn’t tell you. I wouldn’t tell them,” Spikes deadpanned.

“I never go out and try to intentionally hurt anyone,” Spikes added. “That’s not me. (But) do I want you to feel it? Yes.”

Said 49ers coach Mike Nolan, “The game is a physical game, and I believe that players, obviously, when they tackle, they tackle with aggressiveness. We certainly don’t get into meetings and say, ‘All right, guys, here’s our chance to hit the ribs.’”

Nolan said he hopes to regain the services of tackle Jonas Jennings (shoulder) and linebacker Manny Lawson (hamstring) for Sunday’s game. They were among seven 49ers who did not practice on Wednesday, and their status appears questionable.

Safety Michael Lewis (elbow) did not practice, but he is not expected to miss the start. Linebacker Roderick Green (stomach virus) did not practice. He is likely to be available, but he was a healthy scratch in last week’s game.

Running back Frank Gore and cornerback Walt Harris were given their typical Wednesday off. Both are expected to return to practice Thursday.

For more on the 49ers, go to Instant 49ers at 49ers.pressdemocrat.com. You can reach Staff Writer Matt Maiocco at 521-5492 or matt.maiocco@press

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