49ers Start QB Brock Purdy Likely Out Weeks with Shoulder, Toe Injuries

The San Francisco 49ers have been hit hard by injuries early in the 2025 NFL season, with key players George Kittle and Brock Purdy sidelined. Tight end George Kittle was placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, while starting quarterback Brock Purdy sustained toe and shoulder injuries in the Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks. Head coach Kyle Shanahan described Purdy as a "long shot" to play in the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints and indicated he could miss multiple weeks, prompting backup QB Mac Jones to likely start. The injury to Purdy has notably affected the 49ers' betting odds, reducing their favorite status and impacting Super Bowl predictions. The team also faces additional injury challenges with other receivers, which may shift the offense's focus toward a ground game led by Christian McCaffrey. Despite these setbacks, Shanahan and analysts remain cautiously optimistic about Mac Jones's ability to manage the offense in Purdy's absence.