The San Francisco 49ers will enter their Thursday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams with a depleted offense. Quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and wide receivers Jauan Jennings (ribs, ankle), Ricky Pearsall (right knee), and Jordan Watkins (calf) have all been ruled out. This comes on top of earlier losses, including tight end George Kittle (hamstring) and wideout Brandon Aiyuk (knee), leaving the team with limited options on offense.
Mac Jones Steps In As Purdy’s Injury Forces 49ers To Adjust
Purdy initially expressed hope of playing despite the toe injury sustained during Sunday’s loss to the Jaguars. However, the quick turnaround from Sunday to Thursday made recovery unrealistic. Purdy admitted that healing in such a short window was difficult, ultimately leading to the decision to sideline him. His absence leaves the 49ers relying on backup quarterback Mac Jones.
Mac Jones (NFL)Mac Jones will make his third start of the season, having already led the 49ers to victories over the Saints and Cardinals earlier in the year. Jones himself recently recovered from a sprained knee but now reports full health. He acknowledged the physical grind of the season, emphasizing the importance of playing only if he could protect himself. Despite his readiness, Jones faces an uphill battle against a formidable Rams defense.
49ers Face Depleted Receivers And Tough Rams Defense In Critical Matchup
The Niners’ receiving corps is severely limited, with only Demarcus Robinson, Kendrick Bourne, Skyy Moore, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling healthy enough to play. The team may call up Russell Gage Jr. or Malik Turner from the practice squad, though roster constraints could make it difficult to add depth. Injuries to Pearsall and Jennings in the Jaguars game further complicated matters, forcing Jones to work with an untested mix of receivers and backup tight ends Luke Farrell and Jake Tonges.
The Rams enter the game with one of the league’s top defenses, ranking ninth in yards allowed, fifth in defensive expected points added, and tied for second in sacks. Jones praised their schemes and defensive line, calling them the best in the NFL. Alongside offensive challenges, the 49ers also ruled out defensive end Robert Beal Jr. and listed defensive tackle CJ West as questionable. After Thursday’s matchup, the team will get additional rest before traveling to face Tampa Bay in Week 6.
