NFL fans and analysts couldn’t figure out what happened to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy during the NFC Championship Game yesterday other than suffering an arm injury. But the diagnosis is in and it is rough.
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, Purdy has sustained a complete tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his throwing elbow and will require surgery. Purdy is reportedly seeking second opinions in hope of simply getting it repaired rather than something more invasive.
The more serious surgery that he may need with such an injury is a UCL reconstruction, better known as Tommy John surgery. Such a surgery would require a massive amount of time off.
Purdy would understandably like to avoid that. We may not find out for a little while whether Purdy is able to undergo a mere repair as opposed to getting Tommy John surgery so he can potentially be ready for training camp in the summer.
Brock Purdy started the 2022 season as the team’s third-string quarterback, but injuries to Trey Lance and later Jimmy Garoppolo thrust him into the starting role midway through the season.
Purdy thrived in the role, going 5-0 as a starter and leading the team to six wins. He then led the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game before sustaining his injury.
If healthy, Purdy has a strong chance to challenge for or even be given the starting job in training camp.
Will Purdy be healthy enough to play next season?