George Kittle, Emmanuel Sanders, Deebo Samuel all expected to play in Week 12

The San Francisco 49ers should have some big pieces in play in Week 12 when they host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football. Tight end George Kittle and wide receivers Emmanuel Sanders and Deebo Samuel are all expected to play, according to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport.

Kittle has not played since injuring his knee in Week 9, but finally returned to practice this week and has been optimistic about his chances of playing. Sanders injured his ribs in Week 10 against the Seahawks, but did not miss Week 11. Samuel injured his shoulder on a Week 11 circus catch, but returned to the game and did not seem to be in danger of missing this game.

Fantasy football analysis: 49ers offense

Kittle is a must start when healthy, so you can anticipate rolling him out this week. Sanders is not a must start, but is a solid start. The Packers have a strong pass defense, but Sanders has turned into safety blanket option for Jimmy Garoppolo. The only reason to consider sitting him is he struggled to get going last week with the rib issue. The hope is that another week has improved his ribs sufficiently.

Samuel is not someone to start this week, but is worth rostering and monitoring. He is coming off back-to-back eight reception 100+ yard performances and might be working his way into a more prominent role even when everyone is healthy.