Kyle Shanahan Provides Update On Jimmy Garoppolo’s Potential Return This Season

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo hasn't seen the field since breaking his foot in Week 13.

While whispers about a potential postseason return have all but dried up in the weeks since his injury, a new update this Friday from head coach Kyle Shanahan is certain to reignite those rumors. 

Speaking to the media today, Shanahan told reporters that "the goal" is to have Garoppolo healthy and ready to play by the NFC Championship game. 

Asked specifically if Garoppolo could return for the NFC title game or the Super Bowl, Shanahan said on Friday, "that’s still the goal," before offering fans a hint of caution. 

"He’s not out there running and stuff like that, so it’s still a little ways," the San Francisco skipper said. 

Though it appears Garoppolo isn't back to 100% just yet, he doesn't seem to have suffered any noticeable setbacks in his recovery. He even had the cast protecting his broken foot removed about two weeks ago. 

Should Garoppolo progress to the point of returning for the NFC Championship game or Super Bowl, the 49ers will have a difficult decision on their hands. 

Do they start Brock Purdy, who likely played well enough to get them there? Or, do they go with Garoppolo, a known commodity come playoff time? 

We're glad we don't have to make that call. 

The 49ers will finish their regular season at home against the Cardinals this Sunday.