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This is the least likely landing spot listed here—and potentially the best-case scenario for Darnold.
It’s unlikely because the San Francisco 49ers have given no indication that the team has any long-term plans that don’t include Brock Purdy under center. Head coach Kyle Shanahan didn’t mince words when discussing how he envisions the team’s future at quarterback.
“I plan on being with Brock here the whole time I’m here,” Shanahan told reporters. “Brock’s been a stud. He’s a guy I’ve got a lot of confidence in just as a human, but it starts with what he’s done on the field these last two and a half years. We’re capable of winning the Super Bowl with him. He just almost did, and I know he can get the Niners a Super Bowl in the future.”
However, there are a few reasons why Purdy’s future in San Francisco might not be so cut-and-dried. With three years of service, Purdy is eligible for an extension. After leading the 49ers to a Super Bowl two years ago, it’s a safe bet that Purdy will look to make more than Miami quarterback Carson Beck.
That’s the University of Miami—there are any number of college quarterbacks who made more than Purdy last year—or will in 2025. Purdy probably isn’t going to ask for Joe Burrow cheese, but it’s a safe bet he’s going to want more than the $45 million a season Kirk Cousins got last year from Atlanta—possibly significantly more.
Some of the shine came off Purdy in 2024 as well. Sure, injuries played a part, but Darnold outplayed Purdy last year in just about every statistical category. Darnold will want a fat raise, but his annual salary will be more Baker Mayfield than Kyler Murray.
Darnold knows the system in San Francisco from his short stint there. Trade offers from QB-needy teams for Purdy would be—robust. And it’s not like we haven’t seen the Niners make an aggressive move at quarterback before.
OK, so that one was a disaster. But if San Fran is going to keep their Super Bowl window open as contracts like Purdy’s come due, the team is going to have to be creative.
This would certainly be that—or another word that starts with “cr.”