49ers’ Brock Purdy encouraged by recovery but will be game-time decision vs. Cardinals

In a somewhat surprising move, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy spoke with reporters on Thursday. While that might normally indicate he is set to start Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals, it's worth noting that Mac Jones also addressed the media.

Typically, only the 49ers' starting quarterback meets with reporters ahead of game day. The fact that both Purdy and Jones spoke suggests the starting quarterback situation is still very much up in the air—or the team is keeping its Week 3 depth chart close to the vest—making things challenging for the Cardinals as they prepare for the 49ers.

Purdy suffered a toe injury in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks, sidelining him for Week 2 and paving the way for Jones to make his first start with the 49ers. The positive news is that Purdy has practiced twice this week, though only in a limited capacity.

"It's been a day-to-day thing this week, and I feel like I'm happy with the progress that I've been making with my foot and toe," Purdy told reporters. "So, more than anything, it's just gonna be a day-to-day thing on how I feel. Nothing really more to that."

Purdy stressed his strong desire to suit up for the 49ers' home opener at Levi's Stadium but acknowledged the importance of balancing competitiveness with long-term health.

"Definitely just got to see, come game time, how I feel," Purdy explained. "Obviously, I wanna play every game. I want to be out there. We only get 17 regular-season games, and every game matters, especially the divisional [ones], going against the Cardinals.

"So, if you ask me, I'd love to, but I'm trying to be smart with my body here. But you never know. We'll see when the game comes."

Purdy also emerged from Week 1 with a left shoulder injury but told reporters that it is no longer a concern.

Mentioned in this article: Mac Jones, Brock Purdy