San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is officially sidelined for Sunday’s critical matchup against the Green Bay Packers, a blow that complicates the Niners’ path to the playoffs. Purdy’s absence stems from a sore throwing shoulder, an issue he sustained during last Sunday’s disappointing loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
A Setback in San Francisco
The injury, which occurred to Purdy’s right shoulder, initially seemed manageable. An MRI conducted on Monday revealed no structural damage, giving hope that Purdy could suit up this week. However, the optimism faded after a practice session on Thursday. When Purdy attempted a few warmup throws, it became clear his shoulder wasn’t ready.
“We thought he just needed some rest and really weren’t concerned about him not being good this week,” shared head coach Kyle Shanahan on Friday. “But when he started throwing Thursday, it surprised him—and us—how it felt. So we had to shut him down.”
While the team doesn’t believe the injury poses a long-term issue, Shanahan admitted uncertainty about whether Purdy could miss additional time. “The MRI doesn’t look like that, so it should be all right,” Shanahan noted. “But the way it responded this week, it’s really up in the air for next week. We’ll have to see on Monday.”
A Cascade of Injuries for the 49ers
Purdy isn’t the only key player missing from action. Star defensive end Nick Bosa, who exited last week’s game in the second half, will also be unavailable due to injuries to his left hip and oblique. Adding to the challenge, left tackle Trent Williams is questionable with an ankle injury and will be a game-time decision.
The defensive lineup takes another hit with the absence of cornerback Charvarius Ward. Ward, grieving the loss of his 1-year-old daughter on October 28, has rejoined the team but isn’t ready to compete. Other notable absences include punt returner Jacob Cowing (concussion), linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee), and defensive lineman Kevin Givens (groin).
High Stakes for the Playoff Race
The 49ers, sitting at 5-5, are currently locked in a three-way tie for second place in the NFC West, trailing first-place Arizona by just one game. After a Super Bowl appearance last season, the team faces mounting pressure to keep its playoff hopes alive.
“I know it’s disappointing,” Shanahan said of the injuries. “We knew there was a chance for Nick. I think the guys were a little surprised with Brock yesterday, but we addressed all that today. We’re going to have 48 guys in uniform. I know our guys believe in themselves, and I believe in them. We’re missing two good players, definitely. But we’ve got a lot of good players out there. So by no means do we not have a chance to win.”
Next Man Up: Brandon Allen
For the first time since becoming San Francisco’s quarterback in December 2022, Purdy will miss a start due to injury. Taking his place is backup quarterback Brandon Allen, who has spent much of his career as a reserve since being drafted by Jacksonville in 2016.
Allen’s last start came in Week 18 of the 2021 season for the Cincinnati Bengals. Since joining the 49ers in 2023, he’s thrown just three passes. While this may seem like a daunting task, Allen remains optimistic.
“It’s an opportunity,” Allen said. “The circumstances are what they are, but our team all year long has been dealing with injuries here and there. It’s been a big next-man-up mentality. It’s definitely an opportunity for me to go out and play well and put our guys in a good position to win. Obviously, we want Brock back and healthy, but for the time being, it’s an opportunity for me.”
Joshua Dobbs will serve as Allen’s backup on Sunday.
Offensive and Defensive Challenges
Purdy’s absence leaves a significant void in the 49ers’ offense. The quarterback has completed 66% of his passes this season, throwing for 2,613 yards, 13 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, with a passer rating of 95.9. While this is a dip from his league-leading 113 rating in 2023, his presence has been critical to the team’s rhythm.
Defensively, San Francisco will feel the absence of Nick Bosa, who is pivotal to the team’s pass rush. Last week’s defensive struggles without Bosa highlight how crucial his presence is to their success.
Packers Also Hit by Injuries
The Green Bay Packers aren’t entering this game unscathed, either. Cornerback Jaire Alexander, a key player in their secondary, is out due to a knee injury sustained last week. Linebacker Edgerrin Cooper will also be sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Can the 49ers Overcome the Odds?
With so many critical players unavailable, the 49ers face a steep uphill battle. However, the team remains determined. “We’re not throwing in the towel,” said Shanahan. “This team has fought through challenges all year, and we’ll do it again. Our players know what’s at stake, and they’re ready to step up.”
Sunday’s game will be a defining moment for the 49ers, not just in their playoff pursuit but also as a test of their resilience. Whether Brandon Allen can rise to the occasion, whether the defense can adjust without Bosa, and whether the team’s depth can carry them through will make this matchup one to watch.
Stay tuned—this could be one of the season’s most compelling games.
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