49ers Confirm Brock Purdy Ruled Out With Toe, Shoulder Injuries; Mac Jones to Start Against Saints

49ers QB Brock Purdy Out, Mac Jones to Start Against Saints

The San Francisco 49ers will be without starting quarterback Brock Purdy for their Week 2 game against the New Orleans Saints. Coach Kyle Shanahan officially announced on Friday that veteran Mac Jones will start in Purdy's place due to shoulder and toe injuries suffered in last week's win against the Seattle Seahawks.

Purdy's Injury and Recovery

Brock Purdy did not participate in practice throughout the week. The toe injury, which is similar to turf toe, is reportedly the more significant concern and could sideline him for several weeks. General Manager John Lynch described Purdy's status as week-to-week. While initial reports suggested a potential absence of 2-5 weeks, there is an outside chance Purdy could return as early as next Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that Purdy has made "a lot of progress" despite being ruled out for the Saints game.

Mac Jones Gets the Nod

With Purdy sidelined, Mac Jones received all the first-team reps during practice this week. Jones signed a two-year, $7 million deal with the 49ers in March and this will be his first start with the team. Shanahan expressed confidence in Jones, stating, "Our team really believes in him, our team really enjoys him, and he did a hell of a job this week in practice."

Jones' Opportunity for a Reset

After being drafted by the New England Patriots in 2021, Jones experienced a decline in performance that ultimately led to his trade. Arriving in San Francisco, he viewed backing up Purdy as a chance to revitalize his career under Shanahan's offensive system. Jones emphasized his simple approach to the game: "At the end of the day, your job as a quarterback is to either hand it off or throw it." He believes this mindset helps him maintain a low pulse and effectively execute his reads.

Jones' Preseason Performance and Coaching Staff's Confidence

Teammates and coaches have lauded Jones' strong offseason and training camp performance, despite a mild knee sprain during a preseason game. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak highlighted Jones' receptiveness to coaching and his quick understanding of the 49ers' offensive philosophy. "Mac's been really impressive since he walked in the door, just the way he's kind of been open to the coaching and open to learning what we do here and the way we coach quarterbacks," Kubiak stated.

Other 49ers Injury Updates

Besides Purdy, the 49ers are managing several other injuries. Tight end George Kittle is on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Jauan Jennings (shoulder) and left tackle Trent Williams (knee) were questionable for the Saints game, but Trent Williams is active. The 49ers will elevate practice squad quarterback Adrian Martinez to back up Jones.

Week 2 Injury Report