SANTA CLARA — Reuben Foster and Eric Reid were back on the 49ers practice field Wednesday — a development that couldn’t have come sooner for the sake of the defense.

They were limited participants and remain uncertain for Sunday’s game.

Despite Jaquiski Tartt’s impressive play as the starting strong safety, Reid said he expects to get his spot back when he’s cleared to play.

“I won the job in training camp,” Reid said.

Shanahan wasn’t as certain with his assessment, but did say his staff would work to utilize everyone — whether they’re playing either of the safety positions, in the nickel or dime packages or if they’re shifted to a linebacker spot.

“I think we’ve got some pretty good safeties that can play them all and that gives us some options, whatever package we’re going against, whatever type of personnel we’re going against,” he said.

Guess who’s back

(It’s Reuben Foster and Eric Reid) #49ers pic.twitter.com/qXZ26LNdfd

— Sam Hustis (@SamHustis) October 12, 2017

jpalmer@sfexaminer.com