Opinion is that Brock Purdy will need Tommy John surgery, as reported by NFL insider Dov Kleiman, has been a major talking point in the 49ers community. The procedure, which has become increasingly common in baseball players, is actually quite …

The news that Brock Purdy needs Tommy John surgery, is the opinion of NFL insider Dov Kleiman, has sent shockwaves throughout the 49ers community. Purdy had essentially won the starting quarterback position for the 49ers next season, but this injury could open the door for Trey Lance to come back into the picture.

Lance, who lost the starting role this season due to his own injury, had been initially set up as the starter at the quarterback position. However, Purdy's exceptional performance in his rookie season solidified him as the favorite to start for the 49ers next year. But with this new development, Lance's chance to reclaim the starting position is back on the table. His leg is nearly recovered, and this could be the opportunity he has been waiting for.

The Tommy John surgery, which replaces the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow with a tendon from another part of the body, has become increasingly common among baseball players. The UCL is critical for stability in throwing motions, and damage to this ligament can result in significant pain and decreased performance.

While this injury is more commonly seen in baseball players, it is actually quite rare among quarterbacks. This is due in part to the different throwing mechanics involved in each sport. In baseball, the repetitive overhead throwing motion can place excessive strain on the elbow and result in UCL damage, while quarterbacks generally throw with a more fluid, over-the-top motion that puts less stress on the elbow.

However, quarterbacks are still at risk of UCL damage, as seen with former 49ers quarterback Nick Mullens, who also underwent Tommy John surgery during his time in the NFL. Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills suffered a UCL injury in the 2021 NFL season. The injuries may not be directly comprable though. Allen's exact injury and the course of treatment he underwent have not been publicly disclosed. However, it is known that he did not miss any games due to the injury and continued to play at a high level throughout the season. This suggests that the injury was not severe and that he was able to manage the pain and continue playing with appropriate medical support.

The loss of Purdy for an extended period of time is a significant setback for the 49ers. They were hoping that he would develop into a franchise quarterback, but this injury puts those plans in jeopardy. The question now becomes who will step up and fill the void left by Purdy's injury.

One possibility is Jimmy G, who could return to the 49ers if they decide to go in that direction. Another option is Tom Brady coming out of retirement (again), or the 49ers could look to bring in a veteran quarterback like Andy Dalton or Sam Darnold. The 49ers will have to assess their options carefully and make the best decision for the future of the team.

The rehabilitation process for Tommy John surgery can be lengthy and challenging, with most players needing at least 12-18 months to fully recover. During this time, the player will need to undergo intense physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and stability in their elbow. But with proper rehabilitation and a commitment to their recovery, players who have undergone Tommy John surgery have been able to return to play at a high level.

While the injury is certainly a blow to the 49ers and to Purdy, it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills. The 49ers have a talented roster, and this injury will test their depth at the quarterback position. With the right approach and a focus on the future, the 49ers can come out of this situation even stronger and ready to compete for a championship again.