Clinching the playoffs is the focus for franchises across the NFL this month. December is the last month of regular season play – forcing players and coaching staff to bring their best during the holiday season. Injuries are roadblocks for teams that rely on role players to secure victories, and the 49ers have experienced their share. An ankle injury forced Trey Lance to miss the rest of the regular season. Jimmy Garoppolo filled in for the rookie quarterback, only to experience a devastating foot injury several weeks later.
Rumors of trades during the off-season could have thrown Jimmy G. off his game. San Francisco was determined to find value for their ninth-year quarterback despite production since joining the franchise. In six seasons with the 49ers, Garoppolo accumulated 13,599 passing yards and 82 touchdowns. His efforts helped San Francisco reach the Super Bowl three seasons ago but weren’t enough to win the starting job.
Kyle Shanahan had a different approach for the 2022 season. Trae Lance was named the starter early in the off-season – giving San Francisco a new identity. Lance started two games before breaking his ankle against the Seattle Seahawks. His status changed to “out for the season,” presenting Jimmy G with another opportunity to lead his team.
49ers rely on Brock Purdy to lead the team after Jimmy Garoppolo experiences foot injury
Impressive performances throughout the season convinced fans that No.10 is capable of leading the franchise. Garoppolo ranked sixth in yards per completion (7.9) and passer rating (103.0) this season – outshining Josh Allen and Aaron Rodgers in both categories. A foot injury against the Dolphins sidelined Jimmy G. for the rest of the game. Reports after the game led many to believe Garoppolo would miss the remainder of the season, putting a damper mood on a positive season.
On Tuesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that doctors concluded Jimmy G. did not suffer a Lisfranc injury in his left foot and will not need surgery. San Francisco’s gunslinger will miss up to eight weeks recovering but could make a return if the 49ers can rely on Brock Purdy to keep the momentum moving.
49ers’ HC Kyle Shanahan on the status of a potential Jimmy Garoppolo return this season: “There's that way outside chance late in the playoffs. But it's just an outside chance. We're not real optimistic about that.”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 7, 2022
Purdy performed well against the Dolphins on Sunday and is expected to continue playing well. Interceptions were the only flaws in a stuffed stat line – which included his first win as an NFL quarterback. No.13 showed confidence in the pocket – completing 63% of his passes. His two touchdown passes showed poise on the field and will go a long way toward keeping spirits high in the upcoming weeks.
“I love Jimmy.”
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) December 5, 2022
- Brock Purdy on his relationship with Jimmy Garoppolo ❤️ pic.twitter.com/6d62tDF9Vx
Earning a spot in the NFC playoff bracket will rely on Purdy’s performances against a tough slate of upcoming opponents. The Buccaneers, Seahawks, Raiders, and Cardinals are looking to take advantage of an injured 49ers team – hoping to solidify their playoff entrance. Assistance from their top-ranked defense will help Kyle Shanahan’s rookie quarterback weather the storm before the start of the post-season.