The San Francisco 49ers are set to make a significant roster change as they prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons. Tight end George Kittle is returning after recovering from a hamstring injury. However, quarterback Brock Purdy will miss another game due to a toe injury.
Quarterback Situation
Head coach Kyle Shanahan announced on Friday that Purdy is out for the game. He had participated in practice earlier in the week but did not make enough progress to reclaim his starting position. Mac Jones will take the lead as the starting quarterback for the fifth time this season, with Adrian Martinez as the backup.
- Brock Purdy: Out due to toe injury.
- Mac Jones: Starting quarterback against the Falcons.
- Adrian Martinez: Backup quarterback.
Player Performances
During Purdy’s absence, Jones has performed commendably, averaging 313 passing yards per game. He has thrown six touchdowns and three interceptions, achieving a QBR of 53.0. Shanahan indicated that Jones has also been dealing with minor health issues but was a full participant in practice leading up to the game.
Injury Updates
In addition to Purdy, several other key players will be unavailable. Receiver Ricky Pearsall, linebacker Fred Warner, and defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos are all sidelined due to various injuries. Warner recently underwent surgery on a fractured ankle, which will also affect roster decisions.
George Kittle’s Return
Kittle’s return marks a positive development for the team. He missed the last five games but is now fully healed and has been practicing without any limitations. Shanahan confirmed that Kittle will play a significant role in the upcoming game against Atlanta.
- Kittle: Returning from a torn hamstring.
- Full participant in practice on Friday.
Roster Moves Ahead of Game
To accommodate Kittle and defensive tackle Kevin Givens, who is expected to return, the 49ers will need to make corresponding roster adjustments. As of Friday, wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling was placed on injured reserve due to a calf injury.
Defensive Concerns
Additionally, the 49ers face uncertainty in their secondary. Cornerbacks Renardo Green and rookie Upton Stout are both listed as questionable. If they are unable to play, Darrell Luter Jr. and Chase Lucas are likely to step in as replacements.
The 49ers enter this matchup against the Falcons with a degree of optimism, particularly with Kittle back in the lineup, while still navigating the challenges posed by multiple injuries. The game will be crucial for maintaining their position within the league.
