49ers vs. Browns: Previewing Week 14 for San Francisco

Nov 15, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) warms up before playing the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback Comparison

In a sense, both the 49ers and Browns have gone through their own respective quarterback controversies this season.

But San Francisco seems to have gained the upper edge in, at least, determining who has the better likelihood of starting in 2016.

Manziel’s off-the-field antics are already well documented. And it wouldn’t be surprising to see Cleveland move on from him after this season despite the second-year pro being named the starter in Week 14 by head coach Mike Pettine.

On the flip side, quarterback Blaine Gabbert has done enough to improve his chances of earning a starting job next season. Even if the 49ers select a quarterback next year, Gabbert could be the guy who assumes the No. 1 role in Week 1 while a rookie QB develops.

“I definitely think so,” Boldin said on NFL Network (h/t Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area) when asked if Gabbert should be the 49ers future signal-caller. “His body of work over the last couple of weeks speaks for itself. You just don’t come in and play the way that he’s been playing by luck.

“He’s honestly prepared the right way. He’s put himself in a position to be successful and he’s just going out there and having fun.”

Gabbert owns an 89.5 passer rating over four starts with a 63.0 percent completion percentage.

In comparison, Manziel has an 88.4 rating with a 59.4 completion percentage over three starts.

Next: 49ers Injury News