Title: 49ers Quarterback Brock Purdy Progresses in Concussion Protocol, Expected to Play Against the Bengals
Subtitle: Backup Sam Darnold could step in if Purdy is not cleared
Date: [Current Date]
Byline: [Author’s Name]
SANTA CLARA – The San Francisco 49ers received a promising update on Thursday, as quarterback Brock Purdy was spotted on the practice field engaging in individual work. This suggests that Purdy is making progress in the NFL’s concussion protocol and is on track to start in the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday.
Head Coach Kyle Shanahan had stated on Wednesday that Purdy still had enough time to receive clearance to play against the Bengals. However, if Purdy is unable to participate, backup Sam Darnold will make his first start for the 49ers.
Purdy initially reported concussion symptoms during the team’s flight back to the Bay Area from Minnesota on Monday night, following their 22-17 loss to the Vikings. “He started getting symptoms on the plane,” Shanahan disclosed. “So we found that out when we landed. We were all pretty asleep. Then he got all checked up (Tuesday) and now he’s in the protocol.”
According to the NFL’s return-to-play protocol, Purdy appears to have progressed to the fourth phase out of five stages. During this stage, called “club-based non-contact training drills,” Purdy is allowed to participate in non-contact football activities, including throwing passes. Observers saw him rolling out and making throws during practice, indicating that he could potentially receive full clearance as early as Friday or Saturday.
The incident that likely resulted in Purdy’s concussion occurred in the fourth quarter of Monday’s game when he attempted a quarterback sneak. Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jordan Hicks delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit on Purdy as he fought for a first down. The NFL may consider fining Hicks for the hit if it is deemed unnecessary.
Following the hit, Purdy threw a crucial interception on the subsequent play, ending a potential scoring drive for the 49ers. In the final minutes of the game, Purdy threw his second interception, sealing the victory for the Vikings.
As the 49ers prepare for their upcoming matchup with the Bengals, the team and fans alike are hopeful that Purdy’s progress will continue, allowing him to take the field on Sunday. The 49ers Talk Podcast provides fans with the latest updates and analysis on the team’s progress throughout the season.
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