Brock Purdy has been one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks in 2023, but the San Francisco 49ers went down after taking a hard shot in Week 15. What happened to Purdy on Sunday, what’s his current injury status, and how will the 49ers replace him?
Brock Purdy Injury Update
After completing a nine-yard pass to fullback Kyle Juszczyk in the second quarter, Purdy absorbed a massive hit from Arizona Cardinals pass rusher Dennis Gardeck, who was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct.
#49ers QB Brock Purdy exited the game after this hit around the neck by #Cardinals LB Dennis Gardeck.
Roughing the passer was called.
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) December 17, 2023
While Purdy stayed down on the field for a while, he eventually walked to the sidelines under his power and entered the blue medical tent to be examined.
Thankfully, Purdy avoided a serious injury. He quickly re-entered the game, and the FOX broadcast indicated the 49ers quarterback was dealing with a left shoulder stinger. Purdy may have been evaluated for a concussion by an unaffiliated neurosurgeon who also entered the tent.
MORE: San Francisco 49ers Depth Chart
Sam Darnold, San Francisco’s QB2, replaced Purdy for three offensive plays. The Cardinals were called for defensive holding on his only pass attempt.
What Would the 49ers’ Offense Look Like Without Purdy?
Purdy is a top-10 fantasy QB and has made all three of San Francisco’s pass-catching playmakers fantasy stars this season.
An injury to Purdy that kept him out of the lineup for an extended period — and forced Darnold back under center — would slightly bump the fantasy value of Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk down the ranks a bit.
— PFN Fantasy Analyst Derek Tate