Vance McDonald (knee) missed practice for the second day in a row Thursday, the Sam Jose Mercury News reports.

McDonald (knee) missed practice for the second day in a row Thursday, the San Jose Mercury News reports.

Analysis:

With Vernon Davis (ankle/knee) also missing a second straight practice, there's some chance third-string tight end Derek Carrier could end up starting Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Both Davis and McDonald seem to be headed for questionable designations.