Despite all the hype surrounding Trey Lance and Brock Purdy, it could be Sam Darnold starting at quarterback Week 1 for the 49ers.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the 49ers will split first-team reps between Darnold and Lance this offseason. Purdy, on the other hand, will be recovering from elbow surgery.
Darnold signed a one-year contract with the 49ers this offseason. The initial thought was that he’d compete for the backup job. Clearly, that’s no longer the case.
Fowler was told by other NFL teams that Darnold could “push for meaningful snaps as early as Week 1.” He was described as a “major talent” who still has untapped potential.
NFL fans couldn’t help but express their displeasure over this report.
— THANK YOU FIRMINO (@booboo_burner) May 23, 2023
“In all seriousness – what went wrong with Lance? Is he that bad at practice ? Feels likes we’ve never seen him really even play games,” one fan tweeted.
In all seriousness – what went wrong with Lance? Is he that bad at practice ? Feels likes we’ve never seen him really even play games https://t.co/FoHB6Rsueu
— Lawrence (@uncommoncurtis) May 23, 2023
“The Darnold agenda continues,” a 49ers fan wrote. “I had no clue so many people liked this guy like this. Thought it was just me. Maybe that’s concerning though.”
The Darnold agenda continues. I had no clue so many people liked this guy like this. Thought it was just me. Maybe that’s concerning though https://t.co/QCjl1onDAK
— #1 Kittle Fan (@kittlefacts) May 23, 2023
Another fan commented, “I find it funny how you guys draft a qb just to not play him and then you want to start Sam Darnold why is it always my team.”
I find it funny how you guys draft a qb just to not play him and then you want to start Sam Darnold why is it always my team 🤡 https://t.co/VPzbRvx7g9
— ѕмιℓєу 𓋹 (@LifeOfRodeo6God) May 23, 2023
Last season, Darnold completed 58.6 percent of his passes for 1,143 yards with seven touchdowns and three interceptions.
It’s certainly possible Darnold will shine with Kyle Shanahan as his play-caller.