This Sunday, QB Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers may be hoping to return. He has a better chance to go toe-to-toe against the Arizona Cardinals on the gridiron. Injury battles cost him late in the year. He’s been battling toe and left shoulder injuries that he suffered in the Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks. His problematic toe injury has been especially vexing, leading him to miss last week’s contest against the New Orleans Saints.
After the 49ers‘ win in New Orleans, Purdy was spotted in the locker room, appearing to move without significant difficulty. Head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch have their eyes peeled on his possible return. They judge the severity of his injury on a week-to-week basis.
When asked if he’ll be good to go for Week 3, Purdy said, “we’ll see.” This works without admitting anything. This vague-but-hopeful statement would seem to suggest he’s planning on coming back but isn’t promising anything. Shanahan was very encouraged by Purdy’s recovery. Shanahan confirmed today that Purdy will see the field for practice this week, but in a limited role.
Purdy took part in most of the throwing drills during the media-access portion of practice, an indication that he’s making strides in his recovery. Shanahan has left the door open for Purdy’s return, noting, “He wasn’t limited last week. He does have a chance.” This comment is music to the ears of teammate Christian McCaffrey, who expressed similar feelings last week. He was clear that all players need to be prepared, regardless of their tiered designation.
“In this league, whether or not you’re a starter or a backup, you got to be ready to go at any point,” – Christian McCaffrey
At first, many saw Purdy as a “long shot” to start against the Saints. This uncertainty raised alarm given that his availability for the next few games was in question. Should he be unable to suit up against the Cardinals, second-year Mac Jones would likely take over as the starting quarterback. Now he’s prepared to lead the entire team!
Whatever the case, as the week unfolds, the 49ers should have a much clearer picture as to Purdy’s situation. The staff is hopeful for a comeback this fall. Their goal is to do right by his health condition while still remaining competitive enough to appease a professional sports team’s state government and massive fanbase.
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