5 QBs Kyle Shanahan Can Sign After 49ers Shared Brock Purdy Injury Update

The injury curse has struck the 49ers once again. Despite escaping Week 1 with a win over the Seattle Seahawks, head coach Kyle Shanahan shared troubling news: starting quarterback Brock Purdy sustained injuries to his left shoulder and toe during the game. While the shoulder issue affects his non-throwing arm, the toe injury is more concerning and could sideline him, leaving San Francisco’s quarterback depth dangerously thin.

“Coach Kyle Shanahan said the toe is worse than the shoulder and his status will be determined later in the week,” NFL insider Ian Rapoport said. Fortunately for Shanahan, backup Mac Jones is available, though he has dealt with health concerns in recent months. If Purdy is unable to suit up for Week 2, the 49ers may need to act quickly and explore short-term reinforcements. Potential options like Tyler Huntley, Jameis Winston, Taylor Heinicke, Desmond Ridder, and Tim Boyle could be considered to keep the team’s momentum alive while Purdy recovers.

Early in August, Huntley was signed by the Browns. However, he was released on August 24 and picked up by the Ravens as their third-string quarterback on the practice squad. Having been in the league for nearly five years, the 6-foot-1 is a familiar face. The Pro Bowler holds a 64.6% career completion rate with 2,786 passing yards, and he could be an immediate solution for the 49ers, but that can happen only if the Ravens agree.

Winston isn’t a stranger either. He currently sits as the Giants’ third-string quarterback after a lengthy QB2 battle with Jaxson Dart. While the Pro Bowler has an impressive career with 154 career touchdowns, Dart ultimately won the race. In Purdy’s absence, he could show his ability and potentially help the 49ers, creating a win-win scenario. Another possible fit is Heinicke. Having played with the Texans and several other teams, Heinicke has 39 career passing touchdowns. His last stint came with the Chargers before being released during roster cuts.

Speaking of Ridder, he joined the Bengals in July and competed through camp and preseason, but couldn’t get a spot and was later released.  The last on the list is Boyle. While his experience across multiple teams since going undrafted in 2018 is notable, his time with the Titans was rough. In a 29-7 preseason loss to the Buccaneers, he threw two interceptions and posted a 0.6 passer rating before being waived. Now, the rest of the team might not wish to trade their best players at such a crucial time, which makes things even more difficult for Shanahan.

As for the team, after roster cuts, the 49ers shuffled their quarterback room and currently lack a clear QB3. Although Adrian Martinez, who spent the preseason with the Jets, is on the practice squad, the 49ers may still look outside for added depth. Now, Purdy isn’t the only concern for the 49ers.

49ers George Kittle also deals with a hamstring injury

George Kittle left in the first half of the Week 1 game due to his hamstring injury and never returned. Shanahan informed the reporters that Kittle is expected to miss a few weeks. Now, as per Ian Rapoport, the recovery timeline is three to five weeks, which puts him in danger of landing on injured reserve.

If that happens, he would be sidelined for at least four games, making Week 5 against the Rams on October 2 his earliest possible return. That leaves the 49ers with a depth problem at tight end. With Kittle out, Luke Farrell could step in as the starter. Farrell has primarily been used as a blocker throughout his career, tallying just 37 receptions in five seasons.

Jake Tonges showed a bit more spark, catching three passes for 15 yards. In Kittle’s absence, he could see an expanded role. The only other option is Brayden Willis, who currently sits on the practice squad. While Shanahan saw hope with the return of Jauan Jennings, he has to deal with two more injuries. The 49ers are in a tough situation and will need to find answers quickly.