49ers QB Brock Purdy Clears Concussion Protocol, Will Start vs. Bengals
SANTA CLARA, Calif. – San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has cleared the concussion protocol, the team announced Saturday afternoon.
Niners coach Kyle Shanahan said Friday that if Purdy passed the final step of the protocol, as the team hoped, he would “definitely” start against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.
“To me that wasn’t a decision because how he’s been throughout this week,” Shanahan said. “And now that’s why he’s going to have a chance.”
Purdy appeared to suffer a concussion midway through the fourth quarter Monday night when he took helmet-to-helmet contact from Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jordan Hicks on a quarterback sneak. Purdy finished the game seemingly without issue, although he had a pair of passes intercepted in the closing moments, which helped seal Minnesota’s win.
He began feeling concussion symptoms on the team’s flight home from Minnesota late Monday evening and subsequently entered the protocol.
Because they played Monday, the Niners had a walk-through Wednesday, with Purdy doing some side work but not cleared to do anything against the defense. On Thursday, Purdy had cleared more steps in the protocol and was able to practice on a limited basis. And on Friday, Purdy was a full participant in practice.
The final step for Purdy was to be cleared for full contact by the Niners’ team physician and be examined by an independent neurological consultant, who would then have to agree that Purdy’s concussion has resolved for him to be allowed to play. That happened Saturday, setting Purdy up to return.
Through the first seven weeks, Purdy has started every game for the 49ers after returning from a March surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. His 75.7 QBR is third in the NFL, and he has thrown for 11 touchdowns and three interceptions heading into Week 8.
Heading: Brock Purdy Cleared to Start for 49ers Against Bengals
Introduction
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has been cleared to play against the Cincinnati Bengals after passing the concussion protocol. This news comes as a relief for the team and fans, as Purdy has been an integral part of the 49ers’ success this season. In this article, we will discuss Purdy’s journey through the concussion protocol and his impressive performance so far.
Purdy’s Concussion Incident
During a game against the Minnesota Vikings, Purdy suffered a helmet-to-helmet hit from linebacker Jordan Hicks. Although he finished the game without apparent issues, Purdy started experiencing concussion symptoms on the team’s flight back home. As a result, he entered the concussion protocol to ensure his safety and well-being.
Progress through the Protocol
Following the incident, the 49ers had a walk-through session where Purdy was limited to side work and was not cleared for contact with the defense. However, he showed improvement and cleared more steps in the protocol during the week. By Friday, Purdy was a full participant in practice, indicating significant progress in his recovery.
Clearance for Full Contact
The final step for Purdy was to receive clearance for full contact from the team physician and undergo examination by an independent neurological consultant. Both medical professionals agreed that Purdy’s concussion had resolved, allowing him to return to the field. This clearance sets the stage for Purdy to start against the Bengals.
Purdy’s Performance and Impact
Since returning from elbow surgery earlier this year, Purdy has started every game for the 49ers. His impressive quarterback rating (QBR) of 75.7 ranks third in the NFL, highlighting his exceptional performance on the field. With 11 touchdowns and only three interceptions, Purdy has been a key contributor to the team’s success.
Looking Ahead
With Purdy back in the lineup, the 49ers are optimistic about their chances against the Bengals. His return brings stability and leadership to the offense, giving the team a competitive edge. As the season progresses, Purdy’s performance will be crucial in determining the 49ers’ success.
Conclusion
Brock Purdy’s clearance from the concussion protocol is excellent news for the San Francisco 49ers. His return to the starting lineup against the Cincinnati Bengals reinforces the team’s confidence in his abilities. With an impressive QBR and strong performance throughout the season, Purdy’s presence on the field will undoubtedly make a significant impact. As fans eagerly await Sunday’s game, they can rest assured that their quarterback is ready to lead the 49ers to victory.