The San Francisco 49ers may be getting a key piece of their offense back just in time for Week 4. Quarterback Brock Purdy, who has been sidelined with shoulder and toe issues, could be available to play in Sunday’s home matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Purdy has missed the last two games, giving way to Mac Jones, who has managed the offense effectively. In Week 2, Jones completed 26 of 39 passes for 279 yards and three touchdowns in a 26-21 win over the New Orleans Saints, and he followed that up by guiding the 49ers to a narrow 16-15 victory over the Cardinals in Week 3. While Jones has been steady, Purdy’s potential return provides San Francisco with a desperately needed boost in the injured players coming back healthy department.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has not confirmed Purdy’s status but noted that the quarterback’s recovery has progressed. Purdy was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice but that’s a step forward from sitting out completely, and it leaves the door open for him to be cleared later in the week.
The timing is critical. The 49ers sit atop the NFC West at 3-0, but their offense has been tested by a laundry list of injuries. Star running back Christian McCaffrey leads the NFL with 77 touches through three weeks, and rookie receiver Ricky Pearsall has become the team’s most productive target. But Pearsall is now nursing a knee injury, Jauan Jennings is dealing with ankle and shoulder issues, Deebo Samuel remains on injured reserve, and Brandon Aiyuk is “not close” to returning from knee injury either. Purdy’s quick decision making and comfort in Shanahan’s system could help stabilize a unit that has leaned heavily on McCaffrey and Pearsall.
The Jaguars will provide a tough test, particularly for a quarterback not at full health. Jacksonville’s defense has been opportunistic and will look to disrupt Purdy’s rhythm if he plays. At the same time, the Jaguars have shown vulnerability in coverage, which could allow Purdy to find success if he’s able to manage his limitations.
If Purdy can’t go, San Francisco knows they can turn to Jones, who has earned the trust of his teammates with two back to back wins. But Shanahan has made it clear that when Purdy is healthy, the starting job is his.
Whether it’s Purdy returning or Jones getting another chance, the 49ers will need steady quarterback play as they continue navigating injuries across the roster. Purdy’s potential availability is a positive sign for a team that has been defined by stepping up to get the job done despite injuries through the early weeks of 2025.