CLEVELAND –- Outside linebacker Aaron Lynch, the 49ers’ top-passer, is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns due to a concussion he sustained last week.
In Lynch’s absence, the 49ers will turn to Corey Lemonier and Eli Harold to start opposite of Ahmad Brooks. Neither Lemonier nor Harold has recorded a sack this season. The 49ers face Johnny Manziel, who makes his return to the starting lineup for the Browns. Lynch leads the 49ers with 6 1/2 sacks.
Wide receiver Torrey Smith, who was listed as questionable, is active for the game. He did not practice on Thursday due to back and toe conditions. He saw limited practice time on Friday.
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Linebacker Gerald Hodges will start his first game with the 49ers since an October trade from Minnesota. Hodges starts in place of Michael Wilhoite, who did not make the trip to Cleveland due to a high ankle sprain.
Rookie Blake Bell starts at tight end in place of Vance McDonald, who was also ruled out due to a concussion he sustained last week against the Chicago Bears.
The 49ers on Saturday placed running back Carlos Hyde on season-ending injured reserve. The 49ers promoted tight end Brian Leonhardt from the practice squad. He is active for Sunday’s game, and will wear No. 46.
49ers inactives
WR DeAndrew White
CB Chris Davis
LB Michael Wilhoite (ankle)
OLB Aaron Lynch (concussion)
G Brandon Thomas
G Ian Silberman
TE Vance McDonald (concussion)
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Browns inactives
WR Andrew Hawkins (concussion)
WR Taylor Gabriel (concussion)
CB Justin Gilbert (concussion)
CB Joe Haden (concussion)
DB Pierre Desir
OL Gabe Ikard
WR Dwayne Bowe