49ers QB Brock Purdy: Unlikely To Play In Week 2, Says Coach

David

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Post on Sep 12, 2025

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49ers QB Brock Purdy: Unlikely to Play in Week 2, Says Coach – Shoulder Injury Clouds Season Start

San Francisco, CA – The San Francisco 49ers' hopes for a smooth start to the season have hit a snag. Head coach Kyle Shanahan announced today that quarterback Brock Purdy is unlikely to play in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams, casting doubt on his availability for the early stages of the 2023 NFL season. Purdy, who impressed in his late-season surge last year, is still recovering from offseason elbow surgery.

The news comes as a significant blow to the 49ers, who were relying on Purdy to lead their potent offense after an impressive rookie campaign. His recovery from the injury, sustained in the NFC Championship game, has been closely monitored, but recent setbacks appear to have stalled his progress.

<h3>Purdy's Recovery: A Slow and Uncertain Path</h3>

Shanahan's statement, while not definitively ruling Purdy out for Week 2, paints a bleak picture. He emphasized the cautious approach the team is taking with the young quarterback's rehabilitation, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. "We're not going to rush him back," Shanahan stated in a press conference. "His health is our top priority. We'll see how he progresses this week, but it's looking unlikely he'll be ready for Sunday."

This uncertainty leaves the 49ers facing a crucial decision regarding their starting quarterback. Sam Darnold, currently the backup, is expected to take the reins if Purdy is unable to play. Darnold’s performance will be closely scrutinized as he steps into a high-pressure situation. The veteran quarterback will need to showcase his abilities to lead the 49ers' high-powered offense, which includes stars like Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel.

<h3>The Impact on the 49ers' Season Outlook</h3>

Purdy's potential absence significantly alters the 49ers' season outlook. While many analysts considered them Super Bowl contenders with Purdy at the helm, the situation is now considerably more uncertain. The team's success hinges on Darnold's ability to perform consistently and minimize turnovers. The Rams game will serve as a critical test for both Darnold and the team's overall preparedness for the upcoming season.

• Key Concerns: Beyond the immediate impact on the Week 2 game, the longer-term implications are also crucial. A prolonged absence for Purdy could affect the team's rhythm and chemistry, potentially hindering their playoff aspirations.
• Fan Reactions: Social media is abuzz with fan reactions, ranging from cautious optimism to significant concern. Many 49ers faithful are hoping for a swift and complete recovery for Purdy.
• The Backup Plan: The 49ers' coaching staff will need to strategize effectively to support Darnold and adapt the offensive game plan to best utilize his strengths.

The 49ers' season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers provided a glimpse into the team's potential, but Purdy's injury casts a shadow over their chances. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the extent of his injury and the team's ability to overcome this unexpected setback. For now, all eyes are on Sam Darnold and how he steps up to the challenge. Stay tuned for further updates on Brock Purdy’s recovery and the 49ers' game plan for Week 2.

Keywords: Brock Purdy, 49ers, NFL, Week 2, Sam Darnold, injury, shoulder injury, quarterback, season outlook, Los Angeles Rams, football, NFL news, sports news, NFL injury report.