The San Francisco 49ers’ hopes for a deep playoff run took a concerning turn in the final week of the regular season, as quarterback Brock Purdy suffered a bruised elbow that puts his availability in question for Sunday’s finale against the Arizona Cardinals. While Purdy avoided a severe injury, the ailment still leaves head coach Kyle Shanahan with a dilemma under center as the 49ers look to solidify their postseason position.
Purdy’s Painful Night
Late in the fourth quarter of the 49ers’ Monday night loss to the Detroit Lions, Purdy took a sack that left his right arm “on fire,” as he described it. He attempted to throw on the sideline but was unable to continue. Testing revealed a bruised elbow with nerve inflammation, likely sidelining Purdy for Week 18.
The injury scare was especially concerning given Purdy’s history, as he had suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the same elbow during last season’s NFC Championship Game loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Fortunately, further examination showed no damage to the surgically-repaired ligament.
Quarterback Quandary
With Purdy doubtful for Sunday, Shanahan must choose between Joshua Dobbs and Brandon Allen to start against the Cardinals. Neither option inspires much confidence, as Dobbs has just 17 career pass attempts and Allen boasts a 2-7 record as a starter with a 76.4 passer rating.
“We’ll evaluate the two options and make the best decision for the team. Both guys are professionals who have prepared hard all year to be ready.”
– 49ers Coach Kyle Shanahan
The quarterback situation adds an extra layer of intrigue to a game the 49ers need to win to have a chance at the NFC’s No. 2 seed and a first-round playoff bye. A loss could drop San Francisco to the No. 3 spot and a much tougher wild-card matchup.
Stability amid Uncertainty
Despite the quarterback concerns, 49ers CEO Jed York gave Shanahan a resounding vote of confidence, declaring “Kyle’s not going anywhere” regardless of how this season ends. It was a strong show of support for an innovative play-caller who has led the team to two NFC title games and a Super Bowl appearance in his six-year tenure.
- 49ers among NFL’s best over last 4 seasons
- Shanahan’s scheme elevates QB play
As the 49ers navigate the immediate hurdle of Purdy’s injury and their regular-season finale, they can take solace in the franchise’s steady leadership and culture of success that Shanahan has built. But in the playoffs, where the margin for error is razor-thin, quarterback play is often the deciding factor between a championship run and a devastating exit.
