SANTA CLARA – A day after it was announced that quarterback Brock Purdy was in the NFL’s concussion protocol, there was a promising sign for the 49ers.
When the 49ers began practice on Thursday, Purdy was on the field doing individual workouts.
It’s a sign that he’s going through the NFL’s protocol and appears to be on track to play in the 49ers’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at Levi’s Stadium.
Coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday that Purdy has enough time to play against the Bengals. If Purdy is not cleared to play, backup Sam Darnold would make his first appearance as a member of the 49ers.
Purdy first reported concussion symptoms late Monday night on the 49ers’ return flight from Minnesota to the Bay Area.
“He started having symptoms on the plane,” Shanahan said Wednesday. “So that’s what we found out when we landed. We all slept pretty well. Then he had a full physical (Tuesday) and now he’s on the record.”
According to the NFL’s return-to-play protocol, Purdy appears to have reached at least the fourth of five phases. The fourth stage is described as a “club-based non-contact training exercise” where a player can take part in non-contact football activities such as throwing.
Purdy was seen rolling out and throwing passes on the 49ers’ practice field. It seems possible that Purdy could receive full clearance as early as Friday or Saturday.
Purdy was likely injured during a quarterback sneak attempt in the fourth quarter of the 49ers’ 22-17 loss on Monday, when Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jordan Hicks delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit to Purdy as he went for a first down fought. Hicks could be fined if the NFL deems his actions unnecessary.
Two plays later, Purdy threw a costly interception to end the 49ers’ scoring threat. In the final minute, Purdy threw his second interception, while defensive back Camryn Bynum collected his second pick, securing the Vikings’ victory.
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