49ers to Start Mac Jones vs Giants as Brock Purdy Remains Questionable

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy remains sidelined with a lingering right big toe injury but is showing signs of progress toward a potential return. Despite practicing in a limited capacity for several weeks and taking more reps with the starting offense recently, Purdy is still not healthy enough to start, leading head coach Kyle Shanahan to confirm Mac Jones will start for the fifth consecutive week against the New York Giants. Purdy's cautious reintegration follows an earlier rushed return that resulted in re-aggravating the injury and an extended absence. The 49ers are prioritizing Purdy's long-term health over short-term play, especially given their current 4-2 record with Jones as the starter, and hope to bring Purdy back gradually, potentially at their next home game on a grass field. General manager John Lynch emphasized the importance of trusting Purdy's self-assessment of his readiness, while Jones acknowledges the challenge of facing a strong Giants defense. Overall, the 49ers are managing Purdy's comeback carefully to ensure he's fully recovered for a playoff push later in the season.