SF 49ers may start 2023 season without Brock Purdy, but chances of him starting in Week 1 are growing.
Purdy recovering from elbow surgery, started throwing last week, showing significant progress.
GM John Lynch sees Purdy as the frontrunner, but Sam Darnold and Trey Lance will have a chance to compete.
Purdy injured elbow in NFC Championship Game, underwent surgery on March 10.
Expected recovery timeline is around 12 weeks, which would be Aug. 21.
Lynch and coach Shanahan have indicated that the starting job is Purdy's once he is fully cleared.
Lance, the 49ers' No. 3 overall draft pick, has shown improvements this offseason.
Purdy's strong performance last season solidified his position as the top QB on the depth chart.