The San Francisco 49ers will proceed without starting quarterback Brock Purdy in their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints on March 17, 2024. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed on Friday that Purdy has been ruled out due to ongoing injuries to his left shoulder and toe. The team will rely on veteran quarterback Mac Jones, who is set to make his first start for the 49ers after joining the organization earlier this year.
Purdy was unable to practice throughout the week, raising concerns about the severity of his injuries. The toe issue, which resembles turf toe, has been highlighted as the primary concern, with Shanahan suggesting it could sideline Purdy for several weeks. John Lynch, the 49ers’ general manager, indicated that Purdy’s condition is currently deemed “week to week,” leaving his future uncertain.
With Purdy unavailable, Jones has taken all the first-team snaps during practice. He joined the 49ers on a two-year contract worth $7 million in March 2024. “Mac’s been awesome,” Shanahan remarked, expressing confidence in Jones’s ability to lead the team.
Jones, previously selected as the No. 15 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, faced challenges during his tenure in New England and with the Jacksonville Jaguars last season, where he recorded eight touchdowns and eight interceptions. His performance declined significantly, resulting in a career-low Quarterback Rating (QBR) of 36.6 in 2023. However, upon arriving in San Francisco, Jones saw his role as a chance to rejuvenate his career under Shanahan’s guidance.
Throughout the offseason and training camp, coaches and teammates noted Jones’s impressive work ethic and eagerness to learn. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak praised Jones’s open-mindedness and growth since joining the team. “He bought in from day one,” Kubiak said, highlighting the quarterback’s commitment to adapting to the team’s coaching style.
As Jones steps into the starting role, the 49ers are also preparing to promote Adrian Martinez from the practice squad to serve as Jones’s backup. Martinez, who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2023, has spent time with the Detroit Lions and New York Jets. Though he has yet to play in a regular-season game, he was elevated to the Jets’ active roster last year as a backup.
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who previously coached Martinez, expressed his admiration for the young quarterback, noting his athleticism and willingness to learn. “He’s a really good person,” Saleh commented, emphasizing Martinez’s potential.
Compounding the challenge for Jones this week are additional injuries affecting the 49ers’ roster. Notably, tight end George Kittle has been placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, while receiver Jauan Jennings (shoulder) and left tackle Trent Williams (knee) are both questionable to play after limited practice this week.
Regarding Purdy’s potential return, Lynch remains optimistic. “Brock is doing well,” he stated. “He’s doing everything he can to get back out there as soon as possible.” The team is focused on ensuring Purdy’s recovery while navigating the immediate challenges ahead.
