49ers Rule Out Brock Purdy as Backup, Signal His Return Will Be as Starter

The San Francisco 49ers have opted for caution regarding Brock Purdy’s return, deciding not to list him as the backup quarterback in Sunday’s Week 10 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite speculation earlier in the week that Purdy might suit up in a reserve role, the team’s final decision underscores their commitment to ensuring he’s fully ready before returning to the field.

According to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, the 49ers’ coaching staff chose to abandon the plan of dressing Purdy as the No. 2 quarterback. Instead, the organization maintains that when the 25-year-old is cleared to play, it will be as the team’s starter—not as an insurance option. “The 49ers decided after last week to scrap the idea of Brock Purdy serving as the No. 2,” Maiocco reported. “When he’s ready to play, he’ll be back in the starting lineup.”

The decision reflects both confidence in Purdy’s long-term role and trust in current starter Mac Jones, who has guided the team capably during the injury stretch. San Francisco enters its divisional matchup against Los Angeles with playoff aspirations intact, balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term quarterback stability.

While Purdy continues to rehab his turf toe injury, the 49ers are signaling that his recovery timeline remains on track. The fact that he was even considered for an active role this week is a positive indication that a full return could be imminent—potentially as soon as next week’s game against the Arizona Cardinals.

1. Mac Jones Steadying the Ship Under Center

With Purdy still unavailable, Mac Jones will make his eighth consecutive start for San Francisco. Since being called into action earlier this season, the veteran quarterback has provided consistency and poise in the 49ers’ offense. Across seven starts, Jones has totaled 1,832 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions, while completing an efficient 67.2 percent of his passes. Jones’ composure and decision-making have earned him praise within the locker room and from head coach Kyle Shanahan, who values his ability to sustain drives and protect the football. Although he lacks Purdy’s mobility and deep-ball flair, Jones’ methodical approach has fit well with San Francisco’s balanced offensive scheme, led by running back Christian McCaffrey and wideout Deebo Samuel. The 49ers’ offense has shown flashes of balance in recent weeks, relying on a strong ground game and timely passing. Jones’ accuracy on short and intermediate routes has complemented the team’s play-action strategy, allowing Shanahan to maintain offensive rhythm even without his primary starter. Still, the team’s identity remains closely tied to Purdy’s leadership and improvisational skills. Jones’ steady play has kept the 49ers competitive, but the organization continues to view Purdy as the long-term answer under center—a belief reflected in the decision to hold him out until he’s fully ready to resume command.

2. Purdy Nearing a Return, 49ers Eye Playoff Push

Brock Purdy’s absence has stretched over seven games since he first suffered a turf toe injury in San Francisco’s Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks. Before being sidelined, Purdy displayed promise in limited action, throwing for 586 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions across two appearances while completing nearly 66 percent of his passes. The injury, initially thought to be minor, lingered longer than expected, forcing the team to adopt a cautious approach. Turf toe injuries can significantly impact a quarterback’s ability to plant and throw, and the 49ers are wary of rushing him back before he regains full strength and stability in his footwork. Nonetheless, the latest developments suggest that Purdy is closing in on full clearance. Being discussed as a potential backup option this week signals that his recovery is nearly complete. The team is hopeful that with another week of rest and practice reps, Purdy could return as the starter for San Francisco’s Week 11 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. A healthy Purdy would provide the 49ers with a major boost heading into the second half of the season. His ability to extend plays and read defenses adds a dynamic dimension to an offense already loaded with playmakers. With the NFC playoff picture tightening, San Francisco will be eager to have its starting quarterback back at the helm.

3. Staying the Course in a Competitive NFC

The 49ers’ handling of Purdy’s injury highlights a broader strategy focused on long-term stability rather than short-term risk. At 7–2 entering Week 10, San Francisco remains firmly in the playoff mix and within striking distance of the NFC West lead. Ensuring that Purdy returns fully healthy, rather than prematurely, could prove critical as the postseason approaches. Meanwhile, Mac Jones’ continued presence gives the team valuable insurance. His efficient play and growing command of the offense have allowed San Francisco to weather its quarterback injury issues without losing momentum. The coaching staff has praised his preparation and adaptability—qualities that could make him an essential contributor even after Purdy’s return. Defensively, San Francisco continues to thrive, thanks to strong performances from Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and the secondary. That unit has helped compensate for the occasional offensive inconsistency, keeping the team competitive in tight games. Looking ahead, the 49ers’ next few weeks will be crucial in solidifying their playoff standing. With Purdy’s recovery nearing completion and Jones providing steady leadership, San Francisco finds itself in an enviable position—balancing patience, depth, and confidence in its long-term plan.