Brock Purdy Out for Thursday Night Football as 49ers Face Rams

When Brock Purdy, quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, was ruled out for Thursday Night Football, the ripple effect was immediate. The announcement came from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network on October 1, 2025, just hours before the team was set to host the Los Angeles Rams at Levi’s Stadium on October 2.

Why Purdy’s Absence Matters

The 49ers’ starter has been battling a nagging shoulder strain and a lingering toe issue that first flared in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. Those ailments forced him to miss Weeks 2 and 3, then return for a bruising loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 28, only to re‑experience soreness. The medical staff’s verdict – “out for Thursday’s game” – turns a single quarterback problem into a full‑scale depth test for a team already wrestling with multiple injuries.

Injury Landscape Across the Roster

San Francisco’s injury report reads like a grocery list of setbacks. Wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle, ribs) and fellow receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) both sit out, leaving a void in a passing attack that has already produced 327 yards through Pearsall’s 20 catches. Veteran tight end George Kittle remains on injured reserve after a Week 1 hamstring injury, meaning the 49ers lose one of the league’s most dynamic play‑makers.

• WR Jauan Jennings – ankle & rib injuries, 9 receptions for 129 yards, 1 TD.
• WR Ricky Pearsall – knee injury, league‑leading 327 receiving yards.
• WR Jordan Watkins – calf strain.
• DE Robert Beal – ankle injury.
• TE George Kittle – IR, hamstring.

Even the defensive line isn’t spared; defensive end Robert Beal is listed as doubtful with an ankle sprain. The cumulative effect is a 49ers squad that must lean heavily on its bench talent.

Mac Jones Steps Into the Spotlight

Backup quarterback Mac Jones took the reins for Weeks 2 and 3 and didn’t look out of place. He compiled 563 passing yards, four touchdowns, and a single interception on 53 of 80 attempts, guiding the Niners to victories over the Arizona Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks. "Jones showed poise under pressure," said former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy, "but the question is whether a backup can sustain that level over a grueling NFC West schedule."

What This Means for the NFC West Race

The Rams, who sit second in the division with a 2‑2 record, are looking to capitalize on San Francisco’s misfortune. Their own quarterback, Matthew Stafford, has been healthy, and the Rams’ defense has been holding opponents to under 22 points per game. A win in San Jose could tighten the division to a virtual tie, making every subsequent matchup a potential playoff decider.

Meanwhile, the 49ers’ front office remains optimistic. General manager John Lynch told reporters, "We have depth at several positions and a coaching staff that knows how to adjust. Brock’s health is our top priority, but the team will compete regardless." The organization plans to reassess Purdy’s status during Week 6 preparations, slated for the following Wednesday.

Broader NFL Injury Trends

San Francisco isn’t alone in feeling the injury bug. The league’s first month has already seen star players like Joe Burrow (turf toe) and Mike Evans (hamstring) miss time. In Week 4, wide‑out Tyreek Hill and rookie Malik Nabers both suffered season‑ending injuries, while Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson exited a loss to the Chiefs with a hamstring strain. Analysts at ESPN note that the “injury avalanche is reshaping playoff forecasts across both conferences.”

Key Facts

• Brock Purdy ruled out for Thursday Night Football (Oct 2, 2025).
• Injuries: shoulder strain, sore toe – first occurred in Week 1 vs. Seattle.
• Backup QB Mac Jones threw for 563 yards, 4 TDs in Weeks 2‑3.
• Other 49ers out: Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Jordan Watkins, Robert Beal, George Kittle (IR).
• Division impact: Rams could close the gap in NFC West standings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will Brock Purdy’s absence affect the 49ers’ offense?

Without Purdy, the 49ers lose a pocket passer who can extend plays with his mobility. The backup Mac Jones brings accuracy but less experience in the West Coast offense, meaning the running game and short‑pass concepts will dominate. Expect tighter margins on scoring drives, especially against a Rams defense that thrives on pressure.

Can the 49ers still win the NFC West with so many injuries?

It’s a steep hill, but not impossible. The division is tightly packed; a single win against the Rams could keep San Francisco in the mix. Depth players like Elijah Mitchell and rookie Darnell Mooney will need to step up, and the defense must limit opponent scoring to compensate for a reduced offensive firepower.

When is the next update on Brock Purdy’s health expected?

The 49ers said they’ll reassess during Week 6 preparations, which start on Wednesday, October 7. Until then, his status remains fluid, and any lingering soreness could push him out for additional games.

What are the Rams’ chances if they beat the 49ers?

A victory would put the Rams at 3‑2, narrowing the gap to San Francisco’s 2‑3 record. It would also give them a tiebreaker advantage based on head‑to‑head performance, making the remainder of the season a sprint for both clubs.

How do the 49ers’ injury woes compare to the rest of the league?

While many teams are dealing with isolated injuries, San Francisco’s list spans skill positions, the offensive line, and the defensive front. That breadth of absences is among the league’s most extensive after the early‑season blows to players like Tyreek Hill and Joe Burrow.