Sam Darnold

QB Sam Darnold will start for the 49ers in their preseason finale.

Fantasy Impact

Darnold has impressed the 49ers coaching staff throughout camp earning the backup role behind Brock Purdy. This is significant because it confirms the 2021 third-overall pick Trey Lance is not a part of the team's immediate plans. With that being said, the plan is for Lance to come in after Sam Darnold in the team's last preseason game.

After a long competition to figure out the 49ers QB depth chart, Sam Darnold has earned the right to backup Brock Purdy to begin the 2023 season, according to Tom Pelissero on Twitter.

Fantasy Impact

Darnold was signed as a free agent this offseason, and the former top pick of the Jets has impressed the 49ers coaching staff to the tune of earning the backup role. This is significant because it pushes 2021 third-overall pick Trey Lance firmly off the team's radar. Darnold started six games in 2022 as a member of the Carolina Panthers and had a 4-2 record with 1,153 yards, seven TDs, and three INTs.

San Francisco 49ers QB Sam Darnold will play the second half of the team's Sunday preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders, head coach Kyle Shanahan told KNBR.

Fantasy Impact

Darnold joined the 49ers over the offseason after spending his most recent seasons in Carolina after being traded. Reports about Darnold's camp performances have varied on whether or not he was ahead of QB Trey Lance in the 49ers' QB rotation; Lance will start Sunday's game, which indicates he may be ahead of Darnold at the moment. Darnold's performance on Sunday will be important for establishing himself as an option in San Francisco as the former first-rounder struggles to find a role in the NFL after a shaky start to his career.

San Francisco 49ers QB Sam Darnold said that learning his new team's offense has been a "work in progress," but he has gotten more comfortable over the offseason.

Fantasy Impact

Darnold is joining his third team as a former top pick in the NFL Draft. After spending last season in Carolina, Darnold is likely competing with another high selection in QB Trey Lance for the 49ers' backup QB spot — which could be the starting spot if QB Brock Purdy sees any setback. Darnold still has learning to do in order to catch up to speed in time for the 2023 season with a chance to revive his career in a new role and location.

According to Adam Schefter, Sam Darnold is believed to have the edge over Trey Lance heading into 49ers camp.

Fantasy Impact

The believe remains that Brock Purdy is at the top of the depth chart if he is healthy for San Francisco. There is still a lot of offseason left and things can change, but it appears Lance will need to have a very strong camp to establish himself as at least the backup quarterback for the 49ers. Schefter also added that there was no trade market for Lance.