It would appear that San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is still sidelined due to the calf injury he suffered during this past weekend's loss to the Seattle Seahawks. He was not on the field with his teammates for today's practice, hurting his chances of playing on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.
#49ers Jimmy Garoppolo is NOT participating at start of practice
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) October 7, 2021
Garoppolo wasn't able to practice on Wednesday either. However, the quarterback was more optimistic about his status compared to his initial reaction after the Week 4 defeat.
"It's better today, which is good news," head coach Kyle Shanahan said before Wednesday's practice. "Not enough, though, to let him go [in practice], but also not enough to rule him out. The doctors still say [to] give him another day. He's got a chance [to play on Sunday], so we're still holding out for that."
Garoppolo was asked if he felt he might be battling discomfort if he could play on Sunday.
"I'd be battling through it, probably," the quarterback admitted. "We'll take it, like I said, day by day, but it hurts. But it is what it is at this point."
The situation could mean that rookie Trey Lance starts his first career NFL game. Following Garoppolo's injury, the 21-year-old quarterback started the second half of the game against the Seahawks. Lance finished the game 9-of-18 passing for 157 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 41 rushing yards on seven carries.
The good news is that Lance might have left tackle Trent Williams (shoulder) protecting him. The veteran offensive lineman returned to practice after missing a day. However, tight end George Kittle (calf) remains absent.
#49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo is not practicing during the portion open to reporters. Looks like it will be Trey Lance on Sunday.
LT Trent Williams (shoulder) is back at practice.
TE George Kittle (calf) is not.
— Chris Biderman (@ChrisBiderman) October 7, 2021