SANTA CLARA — Tight end Vance McDonald will miss today’s game against the Cowboys with a hip injury.
The 49ers will use Garrett Celek, Blake Bell and recently promoted practice squad player Je’Ron Hamm as replacements.
McDonald has two touchdown receptions on the season, including a 75-yarder Week 2 against the Panthers. He has emerged as one of Gabbert’s most reliable targets alongside new receiver Jeremy Kerley.
As expected Dez Bryant will miss Week 4 with a hairline fracture in his knee. The Cowboys will be missing two key offensive linemen — La’el Collins and Tyron Smith. Their absences could effect rookies Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot.
Here’s the full list of inactive players:
49ers inactives: QB Christian Ponder, WR Keshawn Martin, CB Jimmie Ward, DT Tony Jerod-Eddie, OL John Theus, TE Vance McDonald, DT Taylor Hart
Cowboys inactives: QB Tony Romo, CB Orlando Scandrick, RB Darius Jackson, LB Mark Nzeocha, OG La’el Collins, OT Tyron Smith, WR Dez Bryant
