If you’re a fan of either the San Francisco 49ers or Alabama quarterback Mac Jones, get the 49ers news now. Brock Purdy’s status is now up in the air following a right big toe injury. Purdy has fought injuries throughout the entire season. He was involved in practice but limited throughout the week, and the expectation of his availability should be viewed with caution given the game week status.
Coach Kyle Shanahan reiterated that Purdy is further along this week than he was last week. It remains unclear whether he will be cleared to play. If he indeed does not take the field, it will be the eighth game he has missed this season. The team has continued to lean on Jones more and more. He’s shown amazing toughness playing through multiple injuries including his damaged knees.
Either way, Jones has always performed his best when he has been handed the reins on the team. His won-loss record is 5-2 as a Browns’ starter while throwing for an average of 261.7 passing yards per game. He’s tossed 10 touchdowns to five interceptions on the year. Because of this, his QBR is just 61.2. And among the players in the 49ers locker room, his success has gained him their respect and trust.
“That’s a big reason why I play, to be honest, is to be able to get the respect of people I trust and people that I would take an opinion from,” – Mac Jones
To add to these challenges, the 49ers are still dealing with other injury issues. Defensive tackles Alfred Collins and Kalia Davis and defensive end Keion White went down in practice this week with injuries that would keep them from playing. Their game-time availability is uncertain, which means the team’s defensive line could look drastically different come game-day.
If there’s any encouraging development in all of this, it is in the area of player recoveries. Defensive end Bryce Huff and center Jake Brendel returned to practice after missing about a month with hamstring issues. On their heels, they are set to face the Rams. Guard Ben Bartch will be activated and available for action.
As Shanahan made clear in his press conference, the injuries have wreaked havoc on their practice schedule and preparation.
“Glad that all those guys still have a chance to play on Sunday so hopefully these next 48 hours go well. But it’s never a good feeling when three leave like that,” – Kyle Shanahan
As the 49ers prepare for their matchup against the Rams, they must navigate these injury issues while maintaining focus on their game plan. Purdy’s health is still up in the air. In addition, the impressive Jones could further enhance his profile nationally and become more of an offensive leader.
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