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