It’s looking like the San Francisco 49ers will be without starting quarterback Brock Purdy as they face the New Orleans Saints in NFL Week 2.
Shanahan was asked Wednesday whether he believed Purdy, who is dealing with knee and shoulder injuries, would be able to play against the Saints.
‘I think it’s a long shot,’ Shanahan told reporters.
Purdy suffered injuries to his shoulder and toe in the 49ers’ 17-13 Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks. He was able to finish the game despite them and ended up completing 26 of 35 passes for 277 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.
But after Shanahan’s comments and Purdy’s non-participation at Wednesday’s practice, the 25-year-old appears poised to miss at least one game.
And Shanahan wouldn’t rule out Purdy’s absence turning into one of the multi-week variety.
‘It’s possible,’ the veteran coach acknowledged.
As long as Purdy remains out, the 49ers will rely on backup quarterback Mac Jones to lead their team. The 2021 first-round pick has a 20-29 record in 49 career starts, including seven last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Jones completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,672 yards, eight touchdowns and eight interceptions in relief of Trevor Lawrence last season.