The San Francisco 49ers faced a devastating blow when star quarterback Brock Purdy suffered an arm injury in the final minutes of their game against the Detroit Lions. Head coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update on Purdy’s condition, revealing that the injury occurred on the same arm that the quarterback had previously undergone elbow surgery on. Initial concerns about a serious injury were alleviated when it was determined that Purdy had a right elbow bruise and nerve inflammation. Despite avoiding a major injury, Purdy is unlikely to play in the team’s final game of the season against the Cardinals.
The injury occurred late in the game when Purdy was sacked by a defender, leading to visible signs of pain on the quarterback’s face. Purdy attempted to continue playing despite the discomfort, but ultimately had to be replaced by Josh Dobbs. Following the game, Purdy described his arm as feeling like it was on fire, indicating the severity of the injury. Shanahan announced that Purdy will undergo further tests to monitor his condition, with the expectation that he will need rest to recover fully.
Given Purdy’s importance to the team and his looming contract extension, the 49ers are likely to err on the side of caution by sitting him out for the final game of the season. While Purdy may want to finish out the year on the field, the risk of exacerbating the injury does not warrant his participation. Shanahan’s decision to rule out Purdy for Week 18 showcases the team’s commitment to prioritizing the quarterback’s long-term health and well-being. Purdy’s absence will give him the necessary time to heal and prepare for the upcoming offseason.
The news of Purdy’s diagnosis comes as a relief to the 49ers organization and fans, as it indicates that the quarterback’s injury is not as severe as initially feared. With a right elbow bruise and nerve inflammation, Purdy can now focus on rest and recovery without the added stress of a major medical concern. The team will rely on Dobbs to fill in for Purdy in the final game, providing an opportunity for the backup quarterback to showcase his skills and contribute to the team’s performance.
Moving forward, Purdy will undergo treatment and rehabilitation to ensure a full recovery ahead of the 2025 season. The 49ers will monitor his progress closely and provide updates on his condition as needed. Shanahan’s decision to prioritize Purdy’s health sets a positive example for player welfare in professional football, emphasizing the importance of long-term well-being over short-term gains. As the team navigates the remainder of the season without their starting quarterback, they will look to finish strong and set the stage for a successful offseason.
