Mason Rudolph - Quarterback
Granted, it was only a one-game sample size. But Sam Darnold looked terrible even in that game against the Los Angeles Rams' backups. Kyle Shanahan needs a second-string quarterback who can grasp his complex offense and potentially pick up any Brock Purdy slack. For that, San Francisco must wade into the free-agent waters for next season's backup quarterback.
Finding a starting QB is the top priority for the Pittsburgh Steelers, necessitating a shift from their current roster. Consequently, the Niners should look to Mason Rudolph as their second-string man. Rudolph never got a fair shake in Pittsburgh. Constantly playing in another quarterback's shadow, the organization never saw how bright Rudolph could shine.
In starting three games this season, Rudolph completed 74.3% of his passes for 13.1 yards per completion and three touchdowns to zero interceptions. That's precisely the QB profile that would thrive in Shanahan's offense. More importantly, Rudolph is the ideal candidate to backup Purdy and protect the 49ers' Super Bowl aspirations.
