San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo may be down, but he’s not entirely out just yet.
Garoppolo left Sunday’s 33-17 win over the Dolphins with a foot injury, initially believed to be season-ending. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 31-year-old does not need surgery and does not have a Lisfranc injury, meaning he could be back for playoff action in 7-8 weeks if all goes well.
This development is a welcomed one for the 8-4 Niners, who currently reside atop the NFC West. Prior to the injury, Garappolo was enjoying one of the most efficient seasons of his career, recording 2,437 passing yards, 16 touchdowns and four interceptions over 11 games.
Garoppolo, who seemed destined to be traded before the season, regained the starter’s role after second-year QB Trey Lance broke his ankle in Week 2.
For now, the reins will go to former Iowa State star Brock Purdy, who played well in Garappolo’s absence. Purdy tallied 210 passing yards and two touchdowns en route to the win over Miami.
With their third-string QB now their starter, the 49ers signed Josh Johnson to a one-year contract on Tuesday, making it a fourth stint with the franchise for the journeyman.
