San Francisco 49ers kicked off the season hoping not to carry over last year’s injury concerns. However, only one week into the season, the team is playing catch-up in real time.

Thursday, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport said quarterback Brock Purdy is recovering from a “variant of turf toe” on the bottom of his foot, and will be out for  “two to five weeks”. It’s a double blow, considering Purdy has also been dealing with a left shoulder injury. As for the timeframe of his absence, what Rapoport provided is essentially a guess because it’s not possible to pinpoint at this moment.

”Right now, it’s swollen, it’s irritated, and it’s really tough to kind of ascertain where it’s at. So two to five weeks is the best estimate.” General Manager John Lynch, however, had a slightly different insight. “What we’re dealing with is kind of a week-to-week thing. That’s our information,” he said via David Bonilla of 49erswebzone.com. Either way, he’s out of the Saints game, but that probably won’t hurt the 49ers too badly because it isn’t their most challenging matchup. Then again, Brock Purdy is not the only one sitting on the sidelines.

The 49ers’ injury report extends beyond the quarterback position. San Francisco is getting into Week 2 game without tight end George Kittle, who strained a hamstring in the first half of Sunday’s opener and was placed on injured reserve this week. Kittle had four receptions for 25 yards and a touchdown and is slated to miss a minimum of four games. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has been out with a knee injury, and Demarcus Robinson is suspended. Altogether, it removes some of Shanahan’s most reliable playmakers and complicates the team’s structure.

The attrition is especially concerning because of how Week 1 unfolded. Against the Seahawks, the 49ers ran for only 3.3 yards per carry, and their quarterback was pressured on 59% of the snaps (the highest of his career). Yet, Purdy went 26 of 35 for 277 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions in the win. His off-schedule touchdown pass to Jake Tonges was the highlight of San Francisco’s reliance on the burst and improvisation. But without Purdy, Shanahan will have to rely more on the conventional and structured scheme.

49ers will look to Mac Jones in Brock Purdy’s absence

Replacing Purdy, the 49ers will open with Mac Jones. The veteran quarterback signed this offseason to bolster the No. 2 position and provide Shanahan a steady veteran in case Purdy misses time. Jones is a pocket passer who is capable of running an organized system effectively, which fits with Shanahan’s offense. But he does not have Purdy’s speed and agility, so San Francisco will likely prioritize quick reads and play-action to shield its new starter.

Shanahan recruited him for his knowledge of coverage, rapid release, and ability to spread the football — characteristics the 49ers feel can keep the offense in rhythm. As he stated, ”Mac knows how to play the position. He can play well in the pocket, distributes the ball well, sees coverage well, can play fast in there. He’s got a lot of good film from the NFL.”

The backfield of the team, anchored by Christian McCaffrey, will play a big role in making the transition smoother. An improved running game could take some pressure off Jones and stabilize the offense while Purdy heals. But at the end of the day, the 49ers will be hoping to get Purdy back as soon as possible.