Nate Sudfeld could be the 49ers' backup QB this Sunday if teammate Jimmy Garoppolo doesn't start. Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports

49ers activate QB Nate Sudfeld, don't rule Jimmy Garoppolo (thumb) out

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 12/31/21

The San Francisco 49ers offered multiple clues on Friday that starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo won't be available for Sunday's game against the 4-11 Houston Texans because of the reported Grade 3 sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb and chipped bone that prevented him from practicing even in a limited capacity throughout the midweek.

Rookie and backup Trey Lance took first-team practice reps all week, and the 49ers then listed Garoppolo as doubtful Friday afternoon local time. Garoppolo's status for Sunday seemed practically guaranteed after the Niners officially activated Nate Sudfeld off the practice squad, presumably so he could serve as QB2 behind Lance:

49ers activated QB Nate Sudfeld from their practice squad, a sign they need an extra QB Sunday and that Trey Lance is in line to start vs. Houston.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2021

Trey Lance at today’s practice. Nate Sudfeld is in a scout-teamer-of-week jersey. Sudfeld ran the scout-team offense this week, presumably will be the backup Sunday. pic.twitter.com/OdazpPbCtE
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) December 31, 2021

To steal from Lee Corso: Not so fast, my friend.

According to Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan named no starter when speaking with reporters Friday.

"I’m not ready to announce that," Shanahan said about who will be atop the depth chart this weekend. "Jimmy’s not out, so I’m holding out hope."

Lance's first and, to date, only career regular-season start came back in Week 5 on Oct. 10 against the Arizona Cardinals. He completed 15-of-29 passes for 192 yards with no touchdowns and an interception, and he also added 89 rushing yards on 16 carries in the 17-10 loss.

Lance hasn't attempted a pass since that outing, which may have something to do with why Shanahan is keeping fingers crossed Garoppolo can start with the 49ers controlling their playoff destiny in the final hours of 2021.

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