The Facts: Sources say that Garoppolo is expected to have surgery following the season to repair the torn ligament and chipped bone in the thumb on his throwing hand. In rare times, these types of injuries can heal on their own, but sources say this is not the type that can. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Diehards Line: Garoppolo is listed as doubtful for Sunday versus the Texans after not practicing all week in practice. All indications are, however, he is expected to be out with first-round rookie Trey Lance set to start. Lance took all the first-team reps. With Garoppolo not able to practice this week, the door has been opened to a real question for the immediate future: Will San Francisco's starting quarterback be able to play again this season? Whether he can ge to that point with rehab but without surgery is a question that San Francisco may have to wrestle with for Week 18 and potentially into the playoffs.