3 biggest takeaways from SF 49ers Week 14 loss to Washington

No. 2: Nick Mullens is a third-string backup, nothing more

Quarterback Nick Mullens can no longer look back upon his modest success that made him something of a household name back late in 2018.

Mullens went 25-of-45 for 260 yards with one touchdown and a horribly ill-advised interception, which went for a defensive score, against Washington to culminate in a 70.6 passer rating for the game. On the year, Mullens’ passer rating now sits at 85.7, which ranks 27th out of 35 qualifying quarterbacks this year.

Kyle Shanahan’s offense is clearly worse without its starter, Jimmy Garoppolo, under center. But it would be one thing if Mullens was at least an effective game manager.

He’s not even that, though.

Mullens’ tendency to make critical mistakes during any game is proving too costly for the Niners to overcome. His seven starts this season have done little to reinforce anything but the idea he’s no better than a third-string option on most teams. While it’s fair to place some of the blame for his failures this year on other areas, such as the lack of reliable receiving targets and a porous offensive line, Mullens’ own mistakes and shortcomings are evidence enough why San Francisco should strongly consider moving on from him in 2021.

Perhaps as part of a complete rebuild in the quarterback room this offseason.