49ers’ 2019 53-man roster predictions before training camp
By Peter Panacy
Quarterback (2)
Jimmy Garoppolo, Nick Mullens
The drama surrounding the 49ers’ quarterbacking situation does not center on the starter, Jimmy Garoppolo, who’ll look to reclaim his title of franchise QB after suffering his debilitating ACL tear in Week 3 last season.
No, the drama here is between the backup candidates, C.J. Beathard and Nick Mullens.
Kyle Shanahan has reiterated both Beathard and Mullens will have an equal shot to back up Garoppolo this training camp. Early on, it appears as if Beathard performed better during OTAs, while Mullens had some timing and accuracy issues.
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But as KNBR 680’s Al Sacco pointed out earlier this offseason, it shouldn’t even be a discussion. Almost every notable number on the field during games favors Mullens.
This creates a bit of a dilemma for San Francisco. Shanahan likely won’t keep three quarterbacks on his 53-man roster, meaning one of the two backup candidates has to go.
How?
Mullens has the better trade value, especially considering his team-friendly UDFA contract. Beathard, however, doesn’t exactly boast a high stock value and could be difficult to move, even for the lowest of draft picks in return.
And as last year revealed, boasting a quality backup is important. Even if the 49ers hope this position competition has no weight on regular season games, and either Mullens or Beathard never sees a regular-season snap.
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Training camp starts for the Niners on Friday, July 26.