Jimmy Garoppolo will get plenty of chances to redeem his preseason debut when he takes the field Saturday against the Chiefs. Head coach Kyle Shanahan on Thursday told reporters Garoppolo will play at least the first half in the team’s third preseason game in Kansas City per Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area.
Garoppolo played three series, all in the first quarter, against Denver in Week 2 of the preseason. It was his first action since tearing his ACL in Week 3 last season. The 49ers’ signal caller went 1-for-6 with zero yards and an interception.
It was clear during the game against the Broncos that Garoppolo wasn’t comfortable throwing passes against an opposing defense, but a full half or more isn’t atypical for a starting quarterback in Week 3 of the preseason. That third preseason game is treated as a final dress rehearsal ahead of the regular season.
The 49ers are aiming to get Garoppolo some live reps before he takes the fourth preseason game off and gets under center for the regular season opener on Sept. 8.
While it’s important for Garoppolo to put up better numbers than he did in his debut, the more vital component is his health. Regardless of his preseason performance, he’s going to be the starting quarterback in the regular season. The 49ers have gone to great lengths to take precautions with their players and injuries. Getting Garoppolo through any number of snaps in full health is the No. 1 priority.
