NFL Rumors: Kirk Cousins future in doubt, Chris Jones latest, 49ers QB drama
By Mark Powell
NFL Rumors: 49ers make QB depth chart as complicated as possible
Brock Purdy is the San Francisco 49ers starting quarterback, that much is clear. While he won’t play in the first preseason game, the 49ers have backed Purdy every step of the way after he led them to the postseason in 2022, only to suffer a traumatic injury against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship Game.
Behind Purdy is Trey Lance OR Sam Darnold. One would assume those two players would be ranked second and third, in some order, on the depth chart. You would be incorrect, however, as Pro Football Talk’s Josh Alper lines out:
"“Purdy is not expected to play in that game and the 49ers’ choice of a starter might reveal more about their plans at backup quarterback. The depth chart lists Trey Lance or Sam Darnold as the No. 2. Brandon Allen is the fourth and final quarterback in the group. The 49ers found out last season that there are times when you can’t have enough quarterbacks and their handling of this year’s group heading into the cut to 53 players will be watched closely around the league.”"
Lance, for one, has been mentioned in trade rumors this offseason. If Kyle Shanahan is smart, he will give Lance plenty of reps this preseason and in training camp with the hope that some QB-needy team will come calling.