49ers' Thomas, Lenoir join fellow DBs on COVID-19 list

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SANTA CLARA -- The 49ers’ defensive backfield faces one of its stiffest challenges of the season.

And it will come in a possible do-or-die game with very little practice time leading up to the game.

Rookie cornerbacks Ambry Thomas and Deommodore Lenoir are the latest 49ers player to go on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

They join starting safety Jimmie Ward, starting nickel back K’Waun Williams and likely starting cornerback Dontae Johnson on the COVID list.

Johnson appeared to be in line to make the start over veteran Josh Norman, who got benched in the fourth quarter of the 49ers' 23-7 win over the Houston Texans on Sunday.

Thomas and Lenoir tested positive on Tuesday, according to the 49ers, which would give them enough time to clear COVID protocols and be available to face the Los Angeles Rams in a game that could determine whether the 49ers advance to the playoffs.

If the 49ers beat the Rams, they will earn the No. 6 seed in the NFC playoffs. The 49ers would still make the playoffs if the New Orleans Saints lose to the Atlanta Falcons.

Any player who tests positive on Wednesday or later in the week would not be eligible to return to play in any of the Week 18 games.

RELATED: Garoppolo's status unclear as 49ers prep to face Rams

The 49ers face a high-powered Rams passing attack led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has thrown for 4,643 yards with 38 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

Receiver Cooper Kupp has put together one of the great seasons in NFL history with 138 receptions for 1,829 yards and 15 touchdowns. Since coming to the Rams near the trade deadline, Odell Beckham has 25 catches for 287 yards and five touchdowns.

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