NFL
Why isn’t Brock Purdy playing for the 49ers against the Cardinals in week 18?
With their talismanic QB out for their Week 18 clash with the Cardinals, the 49ers will sit Brock Purdy for their closer as they look ahead to next season.
As the San Francisco 49ers prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals in Week 18, starting quarterback Brock Purdy will be absent due to a right elbow contusion with nerve inflammation. This injury occurred during the 49ers' 40-34 loss to the Detroit Lions on “Monday Night Football.”
Purdy’s injury is not expected to have long-term implications, but head coach Kyle Shanahan has confirmed that he will sit out the season finale. In his place, veteran quarterback Joshua Dobbs will take the helm. Dobbs, who joined the 49ers in March 2024, has previously played for several NFL teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, and Arizona Cardinals.
Dobbs made his first appearance for the 49ers this season during the game against the Lions, completing three passes for 35 yards and scoring a seven-yard rushing touchdown. With a career record of 3-11 as a starter, Dobbs brings experience and mobility to the quarterback position, which could be advantageous given the current injuries on the offensive line.
The 49ers, currently holding a 6-10 record and positioned last in the NFC West, were eliminated from playoff contention ahead of their Week 16 game against the Miami Dolphins. This marks their first absence from the postseason since 2020.
Purdy’s performance this season has been notable, with a 65.9% completion rate, 3,864 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His total quarterback rating of 67.8 ranks seventh among all quarterbacks in the NFL. As he approaches the final season of his four-year rookie contract, discussions about his future with the 49ers are anticipated during the offseason.
As the 49ers conclude their season against the Cardinals, all eyes will be on Joshua Dobbs to see how he leads the team in Purdy’s absence. This game not only provides an opportunity for Dobbs to showcase his skills but also serves as a critical evaluation point for the 49ers' quarterback depth chart moving forward.
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