Kyle Williams will take the bye week, absolutely.

Williams, who was momentarily knocked unconscious and sustained a concussion Dec. 24 against Seattle, expects to return for the 49ers‘ playoff opener Jan. 14. Williams missed Sunday’s game in St. Louis, as did fellow wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. (ankle injury).

“I think I’m on track to be cleared,” Williams said Monday. “I’m getting my bearings back a little bit. … I still need to go through the protocol, but I’ll be ready to go by the end of this week or early next week.”

This was the fourth concussion of Williams’ football career, but he downplayed any lingering effects. His return would help bolster San Francisco’s depleted receiving corps.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh also is hopeful Ginn will recover in time for the playoffs. Harbaugh did not seem as optimistic about tight end Delanie Walker (jaw injury), saying Walker will be examined again Wednesday.

One other injury note: Cornerback Chris Culliver bruised his knee against the Rams, but suggested he will be ready for the postseason.

2012 opponents: The 49ers will face the following teams next season at Candlestick Park: Cardinals, Rams, Seahawks, Bears, Lions, Giants, Bills and Dolphins. San Francisco will play road games against the Cardinals, Rams, Seahawks, Packers, Vikings, Saints, Patriots and Jets.

The exact schedule, with specific dates, usually is released in the spring.