49ers’ Brock Purdy Could Return Against Cardinals

The San Francisco 49ers are optimistic about the potential return of quarterback Brock Purdy as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals. After missing last Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints due to a toe injury, Purdy’s status for the Week 3 game is now more promising, according to head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Injury Update

Brock Purdy has been dealing with injuries sustained during the 49ers’ season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, specifically a toe injury and a left shoulder issue. The toe injury has been particularly troublesome, leading to his absence in the game against the Saints, where the 49ers secured a victory. Shanahan had previously described Purdy as a “long shot” to play against New Orleans, indicating that the injury could potentially sideline him for multiple games. However, he has since provided a more optimistic outlook.

On Wednesday, Shanahan announced that Purdy would be a limited participant in practice, which opens the door for his return. “He does have a chance [to play],” Shanahan stated, acknowledging the quarterback’s improved condition compared to the previous week. This shift in tone suggests that the team is hopeful Purdy can be back under center for the home opener.

Practice Participation

Following the victory over the Saints, Purdy was seen in the locker room and appeared to be moving without significant issues. When questioned about his availability for the upcoming game, he responded with a cautious “we’ll see,” indicating that while he is optimistic, he is also aware of the need to be fully recovered before returning to play.

Shanahan has emphasized the importance of Purdy being completely healthy before he takes the field again. The coach has noted the similarity of Purdy’s toe injury to turf toe, which is known for its potential to linger if not treated properly. As a result, the team is taking a cautious approach to ensure that Purdy is in the best condition possible.

Backup Quarterback Situation

Should Purdy be unable to play against the Cardinals, the 49ers will rely on Mac Jones, who made a strong impression in his debut with the team. Jones threw for 279 yards and three touchdowns in the win against the Saints, demonstrating his capability as a starter. Adrian Martinez, who was elevated from the practice squad, served as Jones’ backup during that game.

The confidence within the 49ers’ locker room remains high, regardless of who is at quarterback. Running back Christian McCaffrey expressed faith in both Purdy and Jones, stating, “In this league, whether or not you’re a starter or a backup, you got to be ready to go at any point.” This sentiment reflects the team’s belief in their roster’s depth and preparation.

Other Injury Concerns

While the focus has been on Purdy’s recovery, the 49ers are also dealing with other injury concerns. Several key players, including McCaffrey, defensive end Nick Bosa, left tackle Trent Williams, receiver Jauan Jennings, and fullback Kyle Juszczyk, did not participate in practice on Wednesday due to various reasons, including rest days and injuries.

Additionally, the team has placed starting left guard Ben Bartch on injured reserve due to a high ankle sprain, which will keep him sidelined for at least the next four games. Rookie Connor Colby is expected to step in and fill Bartch’s role on the offensive line, adding another layer of adjustment for the team as they prepare for the Cardinals.

Looking Ahead

As the 49ers gear up for their matchup against the Cardinals, the status of Brock Purdy remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike. The team is hopeful that he can return to action, but they are also prepared to move forward with Mac Jones if necessary. The upcoming game will not only test the resilience of the 49ers’ roster but also provide an opportunity for both quarterbacks to showcase their skills in front of their home crowd.

Key Facts

– **Brock Purdy’s Status**: The 49ers’ quarterback has a chance to return for the game against the Arizona Cardinals after missing the previous game due to a toe injury.
– **Injury Details**: Purdy has been dealing with a toe injury and a left shoulder issue since Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks.
– **Backup Plan**: If Purdy cannot play, Mac Jones will start, having thrown for 279 yards and three touchdowns in his debut against the Saints.
– **Additional Injuries**: Other key players such as Christian McCaffrey, Nick Bosa, and Trent Williams did not practice, and left guard Ben Bartch has been placed on injured reserve.
– **Upcoming Game**: The 49ers are preparing for their home opener against the Cardinals, with a focus on maintaining their strong start to the season.

Source: www.espn.com