On one disastrous play against the Saints in November, the 49ers lost both running back Kendall Hunter and receiver Kyle Williams to season-ending injuries. Four months later, both players have made enough progress that the 49ers are confident they’ll be ready to go for the start of training camp.
Hunter, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon, has resumed running, according to Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle. Hunter had played very well in limited action behind Frank Gore, carrying 72 times for 371 yards, an average of 5.2 yards a carry. Having a healthy Hunter along with Gore and LaMichael James will give the 49ers a deep backfield in 2013.
Williams, who suffered a torn ACL, wrote on Twitter that he has started running, too. Williams had 14 catches for 212 yards last season. This year he may also take over from Ted Ginn as the 49ers’ primary punt returner.