The San Francisco 49ers on Friday made a roster move that could signal their plans at quarterback in Saturday’s preseason opener vs. the Denver Broncos.
San Francisco announced the re-signing of second-year undrafted quarterback Tanner Mordecai. To clear a spot on the 90-man roster they placed wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown on Injured Reserve. The Athletic’s Matt Barrows said on Twitter that St. Brown is dealing with a foot issue.
Mordecai was one of a handful of players released when the 49ers made some additions to their offseason roster to combat some injury issues at other positions. His return likely means he’s on track to suit up Saturday against Denver. Head coach Kyle Shanahan intimated most of the team’s starters won’t play in the preseason opener, which very likely includes quarterback Brock Purdy.
Backup QB Mac Jones may play some, but the club needs him to stay healthy given the inexperience behind him on the depth chart. The only other QB on the roster was Carter Bradley, who was an undrafted rookie last season with the Las Vegas Raiders. Bradley signed with San Francisco after throwing in a wide receiver workout early in camp. He’ll see a large chunk of playing time, but Mordecai should also see snaps after spending his entire rookie season on the 49ers’ practice squad.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Jones also sits out with Bradley and Mordecai splitting the QB reps. Whoever plays better in the preseason could wind up being the 49ers’ practice squad QB in 2025.
More 49ers: 49ers rookie draws comparison to Hall of Fame defensive back