The San Francisco 49ers are heading into a critical game against the Green Bay Packers with uncertainty looming. Starting quarterback Brock Purdy has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, marking the first game this season he won’t take the field.

Purdy, who has started every game for the 49ers in 2024, was initially listed as day-to-day after experiencing discomfort following last week’s game against the Seahawks.

Despite limited participation in practice early in the week, his condition worsened, and by Friday, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced that Purdy would be unavailable. Purdy is now expected to return to action on Sunday, December 1, against the Buffalo Bills.

“49ers believe QB Brock Purdy should be able to return next Sunday at Buffalo despite his shoulder soreness,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted.

“Then again, they also thought he would be able to start today at Green Bay before he couldn’t. Still, for the time being, there does not seem to be a high level of concern.”

Shanahan admitted he was caught off guard by the lack of improvement, which forced the team to turn to their backup plan.

Allen called to step up

Veteran quarterback Kyle Allen will take over starting duties in Purdy’s absence. Allen, who has nine career starts, has spent the season as Purdy‘s primary backup.

While he hasn’t played a significant role for the 49ers this year, Allen brings experience to a high-pressure situation as the team battles for NFC playoff positioning.

Behind Allen is Joshua Dobbs, who has more extensive recent starting experience. Dobbs started 12 games in 2023 for the Cardinals and Vikings, throwing for over 2,400 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Although Dobbs has yet to see the field for San Francisco, his availability provides additional depth in an emergency scenario.