Following up on the ongoing story. ... As NBCSports.com reported, even through the rain, things were looking up for the 49ers as star running back Christian McCaffrey returned to practice on Thursday.

The All-Pro was at the facility, but sat out of the on-field session on Wednesday after experiencing "knee irritation" from Sunday's win at Levi's Stadium.

While media only is permitted to watch the early periods of practice on the field, McCaffrey was seen moving well, running and going through individual drills.

He was officially listed as a limited participant.

He also expressed optimism about his chances of playing.

In fact, McCaffery said he dodged a bullet with his knee issue, said he'll play in full Sunday.

"I feel great," he said.

If, however, the Stanford product is unable to carry a full load of carries in the club's Week 13 matchup with the Miami Dolphins, head coach Kyle Shanahan has confidence in rookies Jordan Mason, Tyrion Davis-Price and veteran Tevin Coleman, who is on the team's practice squad.

One notable absence Thursday was Deebo Samuel who suffered a quad contusion on Sunday and left the practice field early on Wednesday after warmups. The All-Pro historically has played through injuries but his presence, or lack thereof, on Friday will indicate if he is making enough progress to play on Sunday.

Meanwhile, when Jimmy Garoppolo arrived to work on Monday, his knee was "pretty sore."

The quarterback took a painful hit from New Orleans Saints defensive lineman Malcolm Roach a day earlier, which he felt might have crossed the line.

Garoppolo was a full practice participant on Wednesday and Thursday. He didn't even need a brace on his leg. The quarterback spoke with reporters for the first time this week after Thursday's practice and was asked how his knee felt four days after the hit.

"Feels great," Garoppolo responded. "Feels great, baby."

That last part came with a big Garoppolo smile. Obviously, the quarterback isn't hindered by the impact and will play on Sunday when the 49ers host the Miami Dolphins at Levi's Stadium.

"No, it's coming along," Garoppolo added. "I feel pretty good with it."

This weekend's big Week 13 clash might be on a soaked field. There is a 70 percent chance of rain for Sunday.

"It will affect the game very little," Garoppolo shared. "The elements are what they are. Wind, rain, show, whatever it is, we've played in just about everything this year. I think we're ready for the game. Practiced out there in [the rain] today, and it didn't seem too crazy, but we'll deal with whatever is dealt to us."