San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s 2024 season ended with a concerning elbow injury during their Week 17 loss to the Detroit Lions. Late in the fourth quarter, a sack by Lions safety Brian Branch forced Purdy from the game. He attempted to throw on the sideline but immediately signaled discomfort, removing his helmet and raising concerns about the severity of the injury. Initial assessments suggested the injury felt similar to the UCL tear Purdy suffered in the 2022 NFC Championship game. However, preliminary tests on the UCL showed no immediate damage, though a scheduled MRI was necessary for a comprehensive evaluation. Purdy described the sensation as feeling like his “arm was on fire.”
The injury casts a shadow over what was already a disappointing season for both Purdy and the 49ers. Despite a promising 2023 campaign where he threw for over 4,200 yards and 31 touchdowns, Purdy’s performance regressed in 2024. His final stat line for the season stands at 3,864 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. This decline mirrored the team’s overall struggles, as the 49ers missed the playoffs entirely after a Super Bowl appearance the previous year. The injury adds another layer of complexity to the team’s offseason decisions, particularly regarding Purdy’s contract situation.
Purdy’s Week 17 performance against the Lions, before the injury, showcased his potential. He threw for 377 yards and three touchdowns, albeit with two interceptions, demonstrating his ability to move the ball effectively. However, this strong individual performance ultimately couldn’t prevent the 49ers’ loss, further underscoring the team’s broader challenges. The injury not only ended Purdy’s season prematurely but also raises questions about his future availability and performance level.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate given Purdy’s impending contract negotiations. Eligible for an extension in early January 2025, Purdy’s performance in 2024, coupled with this injury, will likely impact the terms of any potential deal. While a contract in the range of $60 million per season seemed plausible after his successful 2023 season, the subsequent downturn in his and the team’s performance in 2024 complicates matters. The severity of the elbow injury and the projected recovery timeline will undoubtedly be key factors in determining his market value. The 49ers front office now faces the difficult task of assessing Purdy’s long-term prospects given his recent performance and injury history.
The uncertainty surrounding Purdy’s health adds to a growing list of offseason questions for the 49ers. The team will need to evaluate its roster, coaching staff, and overall strategy to address the shortcomings that led to their disappointing 2024 season. Determining Purdy’s future with the team and the appropriate contract offer, considering his injury and inconsistent performance, will be a crucial decision. The team must also address other positional needs and develop a plan to return to contention in 2025.
The Brock Purdy injury saga highlights the precarious nature of professional football and the impact injuries can have on both individual careers and team fortunes. What appeared to be a promising trajectory for the young quarterback has taken an unexpected turn, leaving his future and the 49ers’ plans in a state of flux. The coming months will be crucial as the team navigates these uncertain waters and charts a course for the future. The outcome of Purdy’s MRI and his subsequent recovery will significantly influence the team’s approach to the quarterback position and its broader offseason strategy.
