The San Francisco 49ers are facing a dilemma at the quarterback position as Brock Purdy, their starting quarterback, has yet to clear the concussion protocol. Despite this, there is still optimism surrounding his chances of starting against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Purdy entered the concussion protocol on Tuesday after experiencing symptoms following the team’s flight back from Minnesota. However, he has made progress throughout the week, passing four out of the five steps in the protocol. This allowed him to participate in practice on a limited basis on Thursday and fully engage in Friday’s session. While officially listed as questionable for Sunday, Purdy will attempt to pass the final step of the protocol on Saturday. If he successfully clears it, he will be given the green light to start, according to coach Kyle Shanahan.
The last step of the NFL’s concussion protocol requires Purdy to be cleared for full contact by the team physician and undergo an examination by an independent neurological consultant. Only if both medical professionals agree that Purdy’s concussion has resolved, he will be allowed to play against the Bengals. Purdy likely sustained the injury during a quarterback sneak in the fourth quarter of Monday’s game against the Vikings when he collided helmet-to-helmet with linebacker Jordan Hicks. Despite the injury, Purdy remained in the game, but his performance suffered, resulting in two interceptions during the closing minutes.
Throughout the week, Purdy has demonstrated improvement, taking significant steps forward each day. In Wednesday’s practice, he had to be held out of certain parts of the session where the team wore helmets, although it was primarily a walkthrough. By Thursday, Purdy had progressed further in the protocol, participating in practice on a limited basis. Finally, on Friday, he was listed as a full participant, which is typically a lighter session for the team. The fact that Purdy has been able to take on a greater workload and show positive signs of recovery is encouraging for the 49ers.
If Purdy is unable to clear the final hurdle of the protocol, the 49ers will turn to Sam Darnold as their starting quarterback for the game against the Bengals. Darnold went through a similar situation in 2021 when he sustained a concussion in Week 8 but returned to play in Week 9. He mentioned that he prepared and practiced as usual this week, despite the uncertainty surrounding Purdy’s status. Darnold expressed his readiness to step in at any moment during the game, regardless of whether it’s from the beginning or midway through. Having experienced a concussion himself, Darnold understands the importance of being prepared for such situations.
Aside from Purdy, the 49ers also have other injury concerns to contend with. Left tackle Trent Williams has been dealing with a right ankle sprain and has been unable to practice for three consecutive days. Williams is a trusted and experienced player, so the decision to play him without practicing may be made closer to game time. The team must consider the forthcoming bye week after Sunday’s game, which could influence their decision. While playing Williams could risk further injury, the extended recovery period during the bye might also work in his favor.
Another key player the 49ers hope to have back soon is wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who is currently sidelined with a hairline fracture in his shoulder. Although Samuel will not be available for this week’s game, coach Shanahan provided an update on his progress, indicating that he is making strides toward recovery. The team is surely eager to reintegrate Samuel into the lineup and benefit from his playmaking abilities.
The San Francisco 49ers are facing uncertainty regarding Brock Purdy’s availability for Sunday’s game due to his ongoing presence in the concussion protocol. While Purdy has shown signs of progress throughout the week, he must pass the final step of the protocol to be cleared for full contact. In the event that Purdy is unable to start, the team has confidence in Sam Darnold to step in and perform. Additionally, the 49ers have other injury concerns to monitor, such as Trent Williams’ ankle sprain and Deebo Samuel’s shoulder injury. The decision to play Williams will be influenced by the upcoming bye week, while Samuel continues to make strides in his recovery. As game day approaches, the 49ers will closely evaluate the status of these key players and make the necessary decisions to ensure the team’s success.
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