Josh Dobbs stepped in at quarterback for the rest of the drive and made an immediate impact. The former Tennessee standout completed 3 of 4 passes for 35 yards and capped the series with a seven-yard rushing touchdown, cutting the deficit to six points just before the end of regulation.
The severity of Brock Purdy’s injury remains unclear at this time. Before exiting, Purdy was having a career-best performance, throwing for 377 yards and three touchdowns despite two interceptions in the Monday night clash.
With the 49ers falling to 6-10 and officially eliminated from playoff contention, it’s uncertain whether Dobbs will start in place of Purdy for the season finale against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, January 5. That game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff.
If Purdy’s season is over, he’ll finish with 3,487 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, along with four rushing touchdowns, including one in the Lions game before his injury. Having played 14 games this season, Purdy’s 2024 numbers fall short of his breakout 2023 campaign, where he surpassed 4,000 passing yards with 31 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, achieved in 16 games.
As the 49ers head into the offseason, staying healthy will be a top priority as they aim to rebuild and contend for a Super Bowl. Additionally, the team faces a pivotal decision on whether to extend Purdy’s contract this offseason or wait, as quarterback salaries continue to escalate across the league.