49ers' QB Jimmy Garoppolo doesn't need foot surgery, could return during playoffs
Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo may not have taken his final snap with the San Francisco 49ers just yet.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Tuesday afternoon that Garoppolo does not need surgery to repair what was initially thought to be a season-ending broken foot he suffered in this past Sunday's victory over the Miami Dolphins. Schefter added that Garoppolo has a chance to return to action in roughly seven-to-eight weeks, meaning he theoretically could be available for the 49ers during the playoffs:
The 49ers lost starter Trey Lance to a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2 and were subsequently guided to an overall record of 8-4 by Garoppolo. Rookie Brock Purdy, the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, replaced Garoppolo against Miami and completed 25-of-37 pass attempts for 210 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Purdy will start against the 6-6 Tampa Bay Buccaneers this Sunday, and ESPN's Nick Wagoner reported Monday that the 22-year-old "is going to be the starter moving forward."
Schefter noted the 49ers did not try to claim Baker Mayfield after the Carolina Panthers waived the first choice of the 2018 draft on Monday. The Los Angeles Rams claimed Mayfield on Tuesday, while San Francisco signed veteran Josh Johnson off the Denver Broncos' practice squad.
During last January's postseason run, Garoppolo played through an injury to his right (throwing) thumb and also a shoulder issue that required him to have surgery in March. ESPN stats show the 31-year-old is sixth among qualified signal-callers with a 103.0 passer rating this season. Garoppolo tossed 16 touchdown passes with only four interceptions across 11 games before he hurt his foot.
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