A.J. Jenkins should expect to see some action on Sunday. Lacy Atkins, The Chronicle / SF

How many players are selected in the first round of the NFL draft, are fully healthy and prepared, but don’t play a single minute in their rookie season?

A.J. Jenkins, the San Francisco 49ers’ first round draft choice, has been living out that story for the past 13 weeks. But now, with injuries hampering the Niners’ wide receiving-core, the young man out of Illinois may finally get his chance to shine.

Jim Harbaugh announced in his press conference today that starting WR Mario Manningham did not practice due to a shoulder injury, and is doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Dolphins. This, coupled with the loss of Kyle Williams (torn ACL) last week, means that Jenkins will see some playing time, right?

“Yes,” Harbaugh simply said. “I’ve seen progress from A.J. He’s been on his assignments and he’s executed well when he’s been out there. He’s giving great effort and football rewards that effort.”

The Niners’ other active wide receivers are Michael Crabtree, Randy Moss, and Ted Ginn Jr.