SANTA CLARA — Coach Kyle Shanahan provided his most encouraging update on the progress of 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy on Tuesday.
“We’re hoping for Week 1,” Shanahan said after the 49ers completed a practice at organized team activities. “And we’re pretty optimistic about that.”
Purdy will be cleared to start pitching “next week,” Shanahan said.
Purdy underwent surgery in March to repair the torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. It was expected to start casting after three months.
Then Purdy would have to go through a three-week throwing program to be cleared to return to play.
Purdy said he was taking his recovery day by day, but said Week 1 was the obvious goal.
“I feel good,” Purdy said. “My arm is fine.
“That’s the goal, you want to be ready for the season.”
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Purdy was able to do exercises, but he used a towel to simulate the throwing motion during this part of his physical therapy.
The 49ers open the 2023 NFL season on Sunday, September 10 at the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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