The 49ers are staring at a quarterback cliffhanger that could define their week—the real story isn’t the opponent, it’s who’ll be under center. Brock Purdy has been ruled out after a week with no practice because of a toe injury, meaning the starter role remains unsettled. Purdy has appeared in only Weeks 1 and 4 this season.
Mac Jones is expected to start in Purdy’s stead, but he’s listed as questionable with knee and oblique injuries and was limited in all three practices. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) will not play again, while wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle/rib) is questionable after a second consecutive limited practice.
Jennings played in the first two games, missed Week 3 with ankle and shoulder injuries, returned for Week 4, and then missed last Thursday’s game with ankle and rib injuries.
The 49ers also ruled out defensive tackle Kevin Givens (pectoral), defensive end Yetus Gross-Matos (knee/hamstring), and wide receiver Jordan Watkins (calf).
In addition, several players are listed as questionable: defensive tackle Alfred Collins (knee), defensive lineman Kalia Davis (hand), cornerback Upton Stout (ankle), and safety Malik Mustapha (knee).
With Purdy out and Jones dealing with his own health questions, San Francisco will lean on depth at multiple positions, rely on the running game, and count on the defense to carry more of the load. And this is the part most people miss: the quarterback situation could influence decisions well beyond this week.
Do you think starting Jones again is the right move given his injuries, or should the 49ers explore other options? How do these absences shape the game plan and momentum—share your take in the comments.
