How does 49ers’ blockbuster draft trade affect Josh Rosen?
By Chris Wilson
What can the 49ers expect from Rosen this season?
The San Francisco 49ers should expect very little from Rosen, who will likely have to fight for a roster spot in 2021. However, the best scenario for the Niners is Rosen staying with the team, but never seeing the field.
It is rare for a team to have the chance to mold an unproven but highly-touted prospect like Rosen, and the potential reward greatly outweighs the minimal financial risk.
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In 2018, I asked a nearly identical question regarding what the 49ers should expect out of Rosen, the opposing starting quarterback. Looking back, we haven’t learned much about the UCLA product over the past three years and only 500 passing attempts.
All we can say with confidence is Rosen is still learning how to play quarterback in the NFL, and has a considerable distance to go. In addition, Rosen was not successful when he was thrown into action and surrounded by subpar talent, except when facing Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and ex-49ers QB C.J. Beathard — twice.
However, Rosen does have the first-round upside and barely any tread on his tires, so a full season under head coach Kyle Shanahan could be what the youngster needs to find success.
And, don’t forget, the 49ers are going to need a backup quarterback in 2022.
If Garoppolo stays in San Francisco this year, he will begin the season as the starting quarterback, while his rookie successor is groomed. And if general manager John Lynch and Co. find a willing and acceptable trade partner for Jimmy G., the 49ers will need to sign a viable backup, capable of victory, for their new rookie franchise QB.
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Either way, that leaves Rosen right where needs to be — on the roster and under Shanahan’s wing, as the San Francisco 49ers’ No. 3 QB.