Purdy’s Status Deteriorates Ahead of Packers Game
Brock Purdy has only missed one start for the 49ers since taking the job two years ago—when the team secured the NFC’s No. 1 playoff seed last season, allowing him to rest for the meaningless regular-season finale. However, his status for Sunday’s game at Green Bay is becoming increasingly uncertain, which could be a significant blow for the struggling 49ers (5-5) as they try to take down the Packers (7-3). Purdy is dealing with a right shoulder issue that is affecting his practice participation. After not throwing at Wednesday’s media session, he attempted some light throws on Thursday before leaving practice early. Coach Kyle Shanahan noted on KNBR 680-AM, “He did a little bit more today, but it wasn’t his normal workload. He rested his arm afterward and continued his rehab, so we’re hopeful it will feel better by Sunday.” The team has postponed Purdy’s usual media session to Friday, with no guarantee he will be named the starting quarterback. If Purdy is unable to go, Brandon Allen is likely to step in as the backup, although he did not comment on Thursday. Josh Dobbs is also available, and rookie Tanner Mordecai is on the practice squad as an emergency option.
In addition to Purdy’s injury, left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) and defensive end Nick Bosa (obliques, hips) have not practiced this week after playing through their respective injuries in Sunday’s loss to Seattle. Running back Christian McCaffrey, two games into his return from Achilles tendinitis, remains focused on his own performance, saying, “I’ve never worried about who’s in, especially on Thursday in practice. I’ve seen enough guys not practice all week and go out and have incredible games.” Wide receiver Jauan Jennings shared a similar focus, stating, “We’ve got to go in and win, man. That’s it.”
Purdy has been a tough competitor, playing through fractured ribs as a rookie in 2022, recovering from post-concussion symptoms last season, and returning from elbow surgery to post a record-setting 2023 season. This year, however, he has struggled with accuracy, hitting a career-low 66.0 completion percentage, and has not attempted a pass over 20 yards in his last two games. Despite his shoulder pain, Purdy managed to complete 21 of 28 passes for 159 yards, one touchdown, and an interception in Sunday’s loss to Seattle.
If Purdy is unavailable, Allen, who has played just one snap this season, would be the primary backup. At 32, Allen has not started a game since 2021 and has a career record of 2-7 as a starter. In contrast, Dobbs has more experience, with 502 career passes, 2,920 yards, and 15 touchdowns.
McCaffrey, meanwhile, remains focused on his own play, saying he’s solely concerned with performing well in his third game since his Achilles injury. He’s yet to break a long run but has contributed in the passing game with 95 receiving yards over the last two games. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be where I want to be,” McCaffrey said, “but I’m definitely getting better physically.”
Defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen discussed the team’s defensive struggles in the loss to Seattle, acknowledging a missed gap that allowed Geno Smith to scramble for the game-winning touchdown. With Bosa and Williams uncertain for Sunday, the defense could face additional challenges.
Kicker Jake Moody practiced in windy conditions on Thursday but expects better weather in Green Bay, with forecasted temperatures in the mid-40s and light winds. The 49ers are coming off a dramatic victory in Green Bay during the 2022 playoffs, where Robbie Gould’s 45-yard field goal secured a win in snowy conditions.
The 49ers also mourned the passing of former defensive end and assistant coach Tommy Hart, who contributed to three Super Bowl victories with the team.
Injury reports show that punt returner Jacob Cowing is in concussion protocol, while linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee), defensive tackle Kevin Givens (groin), Williams, and Bosa did not practice. McCaffrey, tight end George Kittle (hamstring), cornerback Charvarius Ward (personal), and center Jon Feliciano (knee) were limited in their participation. The Packers have also been dealing with injuries, including cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), who missed his second straight practice.
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