49ers hope to start Brock Purdy in Week 11

Purdy did not dress for Week 10, but head coach Kyle Shanahan said he could have suited up as the team’s backup for that game. As such, many have expected San Francisco’s game against Arizona will be the point at which Purdy reclaims his starting quarterback role. In his latest comments on the matter, Shanahan said (via Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News) the 49ers anticipate having their QB depth chart back to full strength if things go according to plan over the next few days.

Mac Jones has performed admirably in Purdy’s absence, leading some to wonder about the 49ers preferring to continue with him under center the rest of the way. Especially given the fact the team does not foresee Purdy’s turf toe healing in full by the end of the campaign, an especially cautious approach would be feasible. Nevertheless, a strong showing in practice will set Purdy up for a return. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network adds (video link) the Iowa State product’s participation this week has been “much more intense” than in previous weeks.

“We’re seeing how the week goes,” general manager John Lynch said of the situation during his latest KNBR radio appearance (via Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area). “If he shows his health and his ability to perform at a level we know Brock can play at, then he’ll be out there.”

The 49ers sit at 6-4 on the year and their playoff fate will be heavily influenced by the ability of several key players to return to health in the near future. In Purdy’s case, avoiding another reaggravation of his injury will be imperative given the massive financial commitment made by the team this past spring. The 25-year-old inked a five-year, $265MM extension ensuring his status as San Francisco’s franchise passer for the foreseeable future.

Jones has delivered consistent performances during his time atop the depth chart. In spite of that, the 49ers have remained adamant Purdy will operate as the starter once he returns to the lineup. Barring something unforeseen, that will very likely take place this weekend.