Tight end Delanie Walker was San Francisco’s leading receiver the first time the team faced the Giants. Out since Week 16 with a broken jaw, it sounds like Walker may return for the NFC championship game.
Walker said on Twitter that he will return to the lineup. Coach Jim Harbaugh says the doctors haven’t determined Walker’s status quite yet.
While he’s not a household name, he’s a huge part of the 49ers offense. Walker is a physical marvel and lines up anywhere on the field. He’s a great blocker and his versatility makes their tight end offense tough to defend.
The Giants’ safeties and linebackers have struggled to cover tight ends this year, so Walker and Vernon Davis present plenty of issues. and makes their two tight end attack work. Davis scored a long touchdown on the Giants last time around.
The 49ers can use as many receiving weapons as possible. Braylon Edwards was a starter the last time these teams played, and he has since been cut. Ted Ginn isn’t at 100%.
Walker’s return would provide a nice boost for the 49ers offense.