Franklin, who had been sidelined with a knee injury early in camp, rejoined parts of practice today, and he'll be even more involved Thursday.

Nolan didn't say whether Franklin or Sopoaga will start at the key spot in San Francisco's 3-4 defensive front.

Sopoaga played in the last two exhibition games.

The 49ers only will have two players who are unlikely to play against Arizona.

Rookie defensive back Dashon Goldson will be doubtful because of his elbow injury, and cornerback Donald Strickland is questionable with a bruised chest. Neither backup was likely to play much, anyway.

Pro Bowl running back Frank Gore participated in every part of practice today, and the third-year pro is ready to go after missing the preseason with a broken hand. Gore will wear a pad on his hand against the Cardinals, but doesn't believe it will affect him.

Gore is looking forward to practicing in pads Friday.

"Once I get that first hit, I'll be ready to go for Monday," he said. "You don't want to get hurt by sitting out a whole month. You feel like you've got to do some catching up, feel the rhythm with the linemen and everything. The more I practice day by day, I feel more comfortable."