The 49ers won’t start quarterback Brock Purdy in their season finale against the Rams since they already secured the top seed. During a news conference on Wednesday, head coach Kyle Shanahan informed reporters that Purdy would miss the team’s Week 18 match at Levi’s Stadium. The starter will be Sam Darnold.
Due to a stinger in his non-throwing shoulder, Purdy had to leave the game for a brief period of time in two of the team’s past three games. It makes sense that San Francisco wouldn’t want to risk its starting quarterback behind backup offensive linemen given that left tackle Trent Williams may also sit out.
Shanahan did point out that the one player who will undoubtedly take Sunday off is Purdy.
This season, Darnold has made nine appearances for the 49ers. He has completed 12 of his 20 passes for 108 yards, one interception, and one touchdown. His first San Francisco start since signing this summer will come on Sunday.
Over his career, Darnold has made 55 starts in 65 games. 59.7% of his passes are completed by him, and he has 56 interceptions, 62 touchdowns, and 6.7 yards per attempt.
