The San Francisco 49ers’ playoff aspirations took another hit this week with the announcement that quarterback Brock Purdy will miss Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers. Purdy is sidelined due to a sore throwing shoulder, further complicating the 49ers’ already challenging season.
Purdy’s Injury and Uncertainty Moving Forward
Purdy sustained the injury during last Sunday’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks. An MRI earlier this week revealed no structural damage, and initial expectations were that he’d play against Green Bay. However, during Thursday’s practice, Purdy’s shoulder did not respond well during warm-ups, prompting the team to adjust its plans.
“We thought he just needed some rest and weren’t too concerned,” head coach Kyle Shanahan explained on Friday. “But when he started throwing on Thursday, it surprised us how bad it felt. So we had to shut him down.”
Although the team does not believe the injury is long-term, Shanahan admitted uncertainty about Purdy’s availability in the weeks ahead.
“The MRI doesn’t suggest it’s serious, but the way his shoulder responded this week leaves next week up in the air,” Shanahan added. “We’ll reassess on Monday.”
Brandon Allen Steps Up
With Purdy out, backup quarterback Brandon Allen will take the reins. This marks Allen’s first start since Week 18 of the 2021 season when he played for the Cincinnati Bengals. Allen, a seasoned backup drafted by Jacksonville in 2016, has only thrown three passes in the last three years.
Allen emphasized that his preparation hasn’t changed despite stepping into the starting role. “It’s an opportunity,” he said. “We’ve dealt with injuries all season, and it’s been a ‘next-man-up’ mentality. I’m ready to step in and help the team get the win.”
Joshua Dobbs will serve as Allen’s backup on Sunday.
Other Key Absences for the 49ers
San Francisco’s injury woes don’t end with Purdy. Defensive end Nick Bosa, who left last week’s game with left hip and oblique injuries, is also sidelined. Additionally, cornerback Charvarius Ward, who recently returned to the team following the tragic loss of his 1-year-old daughter, will miss the game as he works back into game shape.
The team will also be without punt returner Jacob Cowing (concussion), linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee), and defensive lineman Kevin Givens (groin). Left tackle Trent Williams, dealing with an ankle injury, is listed as questionable and will be a game-time decision.
These absences place even more pressure on the 49ers, who currently sit at 5-5, tied for second in the NFC West and trailing the division-leading Arizona Cardinals by one game.
Green Bay’s Challenges
The Packers are not without their own setbacks. Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) have both been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup, leaving Green Bay’s defense vulnerable.
What’s at Stake
After a Super Bowl appearance last season, the 49ers find themselves in a precarious position. With a 5-5 record and facing mounting injuries, every game matters in their quest to secure a playoff spot. Despite the adversity, Shanahan remains optimistic.
“I know it’s disappointing to lose key players,” Shanahan said. “But we’ve got a strong team, and I believe in these guys. We’re missing two great players, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have a chance to win.”
San Francisco’s showdown with Green Bay is critical. A victory would keep them in the playoff race, while a loss could make their road to the postseason even steeper. All eyes will be on Brandon Allen and the rest of the team as they fight to keep their season alive.