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49ers to Start Mac Jones Again as Purdy’s Toe Injury Lingers; Key Players Ruled Out Against Texans

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers will rely on backup quarterback Mac Jones for their Week 7 matchup against the Houston Texans, as starter Brock Purdy continues to recover from a lingering right big toe injury. This will mark Jones’ sixth start of the season and his fourth consecutive appearance under center since Purdy aggravated the injury initially sustained in Week 1.

While Purdy participated in limited practices throughout the week, he was officially ruled out on Friday. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged Purdy’s progress but cited the unpredictable nature of the toe injury as a factor in the extended recovery. “It is different dealing with a toe,” Shanahan said, adding, “But I’d say it’s steadily getting better each week.” Notably, Purdy will travel with the team to Houston, indicating advancement in his recovery.

Purdy is not the only significant absence for the 49ers. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (right knee), defensive ends Bryce Huff (hamstring) and Yetur Gross-Matos (hamstring), and center Jake Brendel (hamstring) have also been ruled out for Sunday’s game. Pearsall will miss his fourth consecutive game, while Huff and Brendel sustained injuries during last weekend’s game against the Atlanta Falcons.

There is potential good news on the horizon for the 49ers’ receiving corps. Shanahan indicated that Brandon Aiyuk, who has been on the physically unable to perform list due to a knee injury suffered last season, could begin practicing as early as next week. “I believe he’s getting a lot closer,” Shanahan stated.

The 49ers also received positive updates on their cornerback situation. Renardo Green (toe) and Upton Stout (ankle) have fully recovered and will be available. Deommodore Lenoir (quad) is listed as questionable, but Shanahan expressed optimism about his chances of playing. Linebacker Luke Gifford (hamstring) and offensive lineman Spencer Burford (knee) are also listed as questionable, with Burford’s 21-day practice window having opened this week.

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