49ers News: Who Will Back Up Brock Purdy? 49ers Keep Fans Guessing

The San Francisco 49ers are facing a crucial decision regarding their backup quarterback position as they approach the final roster cuts.

Brandon Allen and Joshua Dobbs are in a tight race to secure the spot behind starter Brock Purdy, and both players showcased their skills in a recent preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, which ended in a 24-24 tie.

Allen had a solid performance, completing 5 of 7 passes for 60 yards during his 20 snaps. He stepped in after Purdy, who appeared to be fine after a risky play that led to an interception.

The 49ers learned the importance of a reliable backup quarterback last season when injuries plagued their roster.

Dobbs also made a strong case for himself, going 8 for 10 for 72 yards, including a touchdown pass to Jacob Cowing. His ability to make quick decisions and connect with receivers has been a highlight of his preseason play.

“Josh takes what the defense gives ’em and on third down hit him on a slant on third-and-10, tight window there, but that was exactly where he needed to go,” Purdy told KPIX in a third-quarter interview. “Josh was on time, Jacob ran a great route and they’ve got a great connection going. It’s pretty sweet.”

Head coach Kyle Shanahan has not indicated that either player has pulled ahead in the competition.

“Not really,” Shanahan said when asked if either has pulled away. “I think it’s been pretty similar in all these games and they’ve done some real good things. We’ve got two guys who we think can play. That will be a tough decision but it’s a decision I’m glad that we’ve got to make.”

Both quarterbacks have shown strengths in areas that weren't initially expected. Allen has demonstrated a stronger arm than anticipated, while Dobbs has impressed with his timing and decision-making.

“When you’re a quarterback, especially one that’s been in the situations that I’ve been in, opportunities to get on the field aren’t as frequent as some other peoples’ and their stories,” Dobbs told KPIX in a post-game interview. “You look forward to any time you get a chance to execute, play clean football, lead my team around me and put points on the board.”

As the 49ers prepare for the final roster cuts, they will need to decide whether to keep three quarterbacks. This would allow Shanahan to tailor his backup choice based on the opponent each week.

However, if they opt to place one on the practice squad, it could lead to complications, as either player would need to be waived and could be claimed by another team.

The 49ers have already guaranteed Dobbs $2.25 million this season, which adds another layer to the decision-making process. Both players are eager to contribute, and their performances in the preseason have made the choice more challenging.

“I’m looking forward to this year,” Dobbs said . “Whatever my role is, I’m excited to embrace it.”

Ultimately, the 49ers will need to finalize their backup quarterback plan soon, as the regular season approaches.

The decision will likely hinge on which player can best execute Shanahan's offensive strategy and provide the team with the most reliable support should Purdy need to miss time.