49ers Want to Rehire Veteran QB Who Was Fired by Brock Purdy
With backup quarterback Sam Darnold set to explore free agency in hopes of contending for a starting role elsewhere after a stint with the 49ers, there appears to be an opportunity for a new second-string quarterback in San Francisco. This situation could potentially lead to the return of veteran backup Nate Sudfeld, whom the 49ers initially didn’t want to let go.
Sudfeld spent the last two seasons with the Lions after narrowly missing out on a spot with the 49ers in 2021 due to injury. Despite being initially favored for the QB2 position behind Trey Lance, the restructured contract of Jimmy Garoppolo and the emergence of Brock Purdy led to Sudfeld’s release at the end of camp.
Now, there’s speculation from USA Today’s Niners Wire that it could be a favorable time for Sudfeld’s return, especially given Coach Kyle Shanahan’s apparent preference for him and the absence of other quarterbacks on the roster.
Shanahan may also consider bringing back Brandon Allen, the team’s third-string quarterback, who despite being 31, has familiarity with the system and some starting experience.
While it would be ideal for the 49ers to retain Darnold, it seems unlikely as he seeks a starting opportunity elsewhere. Darnold, at 26, aims to revitalize his career after a tumultuous stint with the Jets followed by a brief improvement with the Panthers. Despite being regarded as one of the better backup quarterbacks, Darnold is determined to leverage his time in the 49ers’ system into a starting role elsewhere.
