Ahamd Brooks and Aldon Smith, the 49ers’ starting outside linebackers, were the only players limited Wednesday in the team’s first Super Bowl practice at the New Orleans Saints’ facility in Metairie. Both Brooks and Smith are battling left shoulder injuries and both are expected to play in Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, who had no players limited in their first practice here. Brooks said Tuesday he’s battling a sprained AC joint, and Smith has been dealing with his ailment for a couple months. Harbaugh declined to confirm the nature of Brooks’ injury, telling pool reporter John Clayton of ESPN: “I don’t get into what those guys have. If they want to give that information, that’s fine. I always feel uncomfortable saying what a player has.’’ Ten other players participated fully in practice despite their injuries: linebackers Navorro Bowman (shoulder), Patrick Willis (shoulder) and Clark Haggans (shoulder); cornerback Tarell Brown (shoulder); tight end Garrett Celek (foot); running backs Frank Gore (shoulder, ankle), LaMichael James (finger) and Bruce Miller (shoulder); defensive tackle Justin Smith (elbow, triceps) and left guard Mike Iupati (shoulder). Source: Mercury News
