49ers roster bubble watch on the eve of training camp 2023

49ers quarterback roster bubble

Lock: Sam Darnold
Strong bubble: Trey Lance, Brock Purdy
Weak bubble: Brandon Allen
Long shot: None

Yes, the above seems confusing. Or "hot take" material.

It isn't, though. Seriously.

For starters, Brock Purdy still isn't a guarantee to return to the active roster after offseason elbow surgery, meaning he could wind up starting the year on an injury list, even though all signs are pointing toward him being healthy and ready to go.

With regard to Trey Lance, trade rumors haven't ceased since Purdy's ascent late last season, and it's feasible the Niners try moving the former No. 3 overall draft pick to a team that suddenly finds itself in need of a quarterback, particularly after a serious injury.

That leaves Darnold, whose $3.5 million of the $4.5 million offered to him on his current one-year deal is fully guaranteed.

It's "lock to make the roster" kind of money.

Too bad Brandon Allen hasn't been much of the discussion. But, if Lance is traded and/or Purdy isn't ready by Week 1, Allen could make the 53-man roster after all.

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