Brock Purdy Injury Update: Will 49ers Star QB Return in Week 8 vs Texans?

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy will miss Week 7’s “Sunday Night Football” matchup against the Atlanta Falcons as he continues to recover from a turf toe and shoulder injury. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Purdy has been ruled out, leaving Mac Jones to make his fifth start of the 2025 season.

The 49ers remain hopeful that Purdy could return in Week 8 against the Houston Texans, but no official timeline has been set. His last game appearance was in Week 4 against Jacksonville, and this weekend’s absence will mark his fifth missed game of the year.

Brock Purdy Return Timeline: Could Week 8 Be the Comeback?

Purdy’s injury issues began in the 49ers’ Week 1 win over the Seattle Seahawks, where he suffered turf toe and shoulder setbacks. The toe injury was aggravated during Week 4’s loss to Jacksonville, forcing San Francisco to sideline their starting quarterback for an extended recovery period.

According to reports from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Purdy has not participated in a full practice since that aggravation. However, he has shown progress this week by taking part in three limited sessions — a positive sign that his return could be approaching. While the team has not provided a fixed date, Week 8’s road game against the Houston Texans is emerging as the most realistic target.

Shanahan has emphasized that the 49ers will not rush Purdy back before he is fully ready. “We’re encouraged by his progress,” Shanahan said earlier this week. “If he keeps trending in the right direction, there’s a chance he’s back out there next Sunday.”

Mac Jones Leads the 49ers Again vs Falcons

With Purdy unavailable, Mac Jones will start again for San Francisco. Jones has been solid under center, posting a 3–1 record and completing 67.3% of his passes for 1,252 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions. His average of 313 passing yards per game leads the NFL.

However, Jones faced difficulties last week against Tampa Bay, where he was sacked six times and intercepted twice. The challenge continues this week against Atlanta, whose defense ranks first in pass defense (139.4 yards per game) and second in sack percentage (9.7%).

Jones is also managing knee and oblique injuries but is expected to be available for Sunday. If he cannot continue, former United Football League MVP Adrian Martinez will serve as the backup quarterback.

How Purdy’s Return Could Shape the 49ers’ Season

Injuries have hit the 49ers hard this year, with All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner and edge rusher Nick Bosa both out for the season. On offense, Purdy’s absence has limited San Francisco’s ability to maintain consistency and explosive plays, making his potential Week 8 return vital.

The 49ers are in the thick of the NFC playoff race, and Purdy’s comeback could reignite their push for the postseason. If he returns next week, it would give San Francisco a much-needed boost heading into a pivotal stretch of the season.

All eyes are now on Week 8. If Brock Purdy’s recovery continues on track, San Francisco could have their star quarterback back on the field against Houston — a potential turning point in their 2025 campaign.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What injury is keeping Brock Purdy sidelined?

Purdy is recovering from a turf toe and shoulder injury suffered in Week 1 and aggravated in Week 4. He remains limited in practice.

Q2: When is Brock Purdy expected to return?

The 49ers hope he can return in Week 8 against the Houston Texans, but it depends on his progress in practice next week.

Q3: Who is starting in Week 7 for the 49ers?

Mac Jones will make his fifth start of the season against the Falcons while Purdy continues his recovery.

Q4: How has Brock Purdy’s absence impacted the 49ers?

His absence has limited the team’s offensive rhythm and scoring consistency, affecting their playoff positioning.

Q5: Who will be the backup if Jones gets injured?

Adrian Martinez, a former UFL MVP, will serve as the backup quarterback in Week 7.