49ers' DeAndre Smelter: Returns to practice

Smelter (hamstring) was seen in full pads at Monday's practice, Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area reports.

Analysis:

Smelter -- who has missed all three preseason games with a hamstring injury -- returned to practice and could make an appearance in the 49ers' final preseason game against the Chargers on Thursday. The 2015 fourth-round pick was recovering from a torn ACL and had a great opportunity to carve out a significant role during training camp, but a hamstring injury derailed that opportunity. It isn't inconceivable for Smelter to have a strong showing in Thursday's preseason finale and rocket up the depth chart given how depleted the 49ers' receiving corps is. A more likely scenario would be Smelter making the team as a backup and earning playing time later in the season after he gets his feet wet with his first NFL action in a reserve role.