49ers OTAs: These 5 players aren’t off to a hot start
By Peter Panacy
No. 4: 49ers quarterback Nate Sudfeld
While all eyes are on Trey Lance, there’s still a notable battle for the No. 2 quarterback spot between Nate Sudfeld and the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, Brock Purdy.
Purdy struggled during rookie minicamp, yes, but this week’s open session to the media afforded time for Sudfeld to struggle, too.
As broken down by Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area, Sudfeld tossed the only interception of the day in which defensive back Dontae Johnson (more on him in a second) returned it for what would have been a pick-six touchdown.
Sudfeld reportedly overthrew wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud badly, too.
With veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo not participating in OTAs because of offseason shoulder surgery, and him likely being dealt by Week 1 anyway, both Sudfeld and Purdy are vying to back up Lance this season.
While it’s early and far from conclusive, neither reserve signal-caller is pulling away in the competition.