Comparing 49ers’ rebuild under Bill Walsh to that of Kyle Shanahan, John Lynch

Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers with general manager John Lynch (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers with general manager John Lynch (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
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SANTA CLARA, CA – SEPTEMBER 16: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers in action against the Detroit Lions at Levi’s Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA – SEPTEMBER 16: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers in action against the Detroit Lions at Levi’s Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan make the New England Patriots an offer they can’t refuse on Jimmy Garoppolo

Like Bill Walsh, when Kyle Shanahan took over the 49ers, did not have a quarterback. Brian Hoyer, the only veteran at the position, was a journeyman with an average skill set.

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Shanahan was looking for a quarterback, who could not only make throws, but also digest and then execute his large playbook. Finding the right fit was tasked to John Lynch. This was his top priority.

Halfway through the 2017 season, the 49ers struck a deal with the New England Patriots, giving up a second-round pick for the New England backup, Jimmy Garoppolo. He had shown flashes of competency but was yet to be named a team’s full-time starter.

The player checked all the boxes for both Lynch and Shanahan.

Analysis: Both rebuilds went after QBs quickly. Through Joe Montana’s first two seasons with the 49ers, he started eight games going 2-6. The team surrounding him was largely devoid of talent.

Through Garoppolo’s first two seasons with the 49ers, he has started eight games going 6-2. He needs to prove he can stay healthy.