This was a nightmare start.
After going down 7-0 when the Eagles scored on their opening drive, the 49ers turned the ball over and lost their starting quarterback, at least briefly.
Eagles edge rusher Haason Reddick hit Brock Purdy’s throwing arm on a second down pass attempt, forcing a fumble and hurting Purdy. Purdy attempted to get loose on the sideline, but his elbow was feeling bad enough that Josh Johnson and to replace him for the next two series.
By the end of the first quarter, Purdy was listed as questionable to return with a right elbow injury. Johnson is now the fourth quarterback to take a snap for the 49ers this year. Johnson started two games last year, but has never played in a playoff game before.
This article will be updated as we learn more about Purdy’s status.