49ers news: Carson Wentz a free agent (no, the Niners don’t want him)

The 49ers are likely looking for a veteran to reinforce an injured quarterback room in 2023, but recently released Carson Wentz isn’t going to be ‘the guy.’

Under normal circumstances, any team releasing its starting quarterback before his contract actually expires would probably be a bit surprising.

In the case of Washington Commanders free-agent quarterback Carson Wentz, though, it’s no shocker.

Wentz was released by Washington on Monday, as reported by the usual suspects like NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Considering he’ll be on his fourth team in as many years, whatever shock value the release generated should be minimal.

If existent.

So, where do the San Francisco 49ers fit into all of this?

Hint: They don’t.

49ers need a backup quarterback… just not Carson Wentz

The Niners’ own quarterbacking situation heading into 2023 is precarious.

With veteran Jimmy Garoppolo expected to walk in NFL free agency, the only two others on San Francisco’s roster entering the league new year are Brock Purdy and Trey Lance. Both are dealing with significant injuries, Lance a broken ankle suffered in Week 2 last season, and Purdy dealing with a UCL tear in his throwing elbow suffered during the NFC Championship game in early February.

While Lance might be close to returning, he’ll need support. And the 49ers should be expected to add a veteran signal-caller to the room if for no other reason than to mentor and push Lance through training camp until when, at least presumably, Purdy can return.

A keyword to note here is “mentor.” That word shouldn’t be used to describe Wentz.

Reports and rumors about Wentz being “uncoachable” and a poor presence in the locker room are nothing new, but the key tell is the fact he’s been on three teams in as many years. The Indianapolis Colts, who gave up notable assets to acquire Wentz from the Philadelphia Eagles back in 2021, were quick to move him after that season, too.

Washington just joined the club.

If any of that matters, let’s just take into account what Niners Nation’s Akash Anavarathan said about finding a new veteran to support both Lance and Purdy:

Read More: Free-agent quarterbacks 49ers could sign to back up Brock Purdy, Trey Lance

Pretty much.

There’ll likely be a modest market for Wentz this offseason. Some offensive coordinator or quarterbacks coach will utter the inevitable, “I can tap into some hidden talents there” or whatever.

That market won’t include the Niners whatsoever, though.