The San Francisco 49ers aren't committing to Deebo Samuel playing in the NFC Championship Game, but it sure sounds as if things are trending in that direction.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed in his Monday conference call that Samuel did not suffer a fracture in the shoulder he injured in last Saturday's divisional round victory over the Green Bay Packers. Samuel sustained a hairline fracture of his shoulder in Week 6 and missed two games.

But he indicated the wideout's status for Sunday's title game with the Detroit Lions is still up in the air, with Samuel still in some pain following the injury. San Francisco's Wednesday practice following a players day off on Tuesday will give the Niners a better idea of whether Samuel can play in what is their third successive NFC Championship Game.

"It wasn't broken, so that was a real good sign, but still hurting too much for us to really have an idea how it's going to heal up this week," Shanahan said. 

"So we've just got to be patient, see how he feels on Wednesday, and based off of if it's improving, it'll give us a better idea whether he has a chance for the game or not."

The 49ers' offense often looked out of rhythm without Samuel on the field after he left the game. He was initially evaluated for a head injury after a hit on their first offensive series and returned to the game, only to then exit once more before being ruled out. 

Still, the 49ers outgained the Packers and narrowly edged them in yards per play (5.6 to 5.3), with San Francisco's attack finding its best at the crucial time as Brock Purdy led a game-winning drive to seal a 24-21 victory.

San Francisco won't do anything rash, however, given the stakes and the fact Samuel has avoided a serious injury, it's difficult to imagine Samuel sitting out with a return to the Super Bowl so tantalizingly close.

49ers have cause for concern after NFL’s Championship Game announcement

They must be disciplined.