The Denver Broncos are planning to release both of their backup quarterbacks, Brett Rypien and Kevin Hogan according to Nicki Jhabvala of the Athletic. That would leave Joe Flacco as the only quarterback available with rookie Drew Lock dealing with a thumb injury. That means they’ll need a backup quarterback.
Not only do the 49ers have two backup quarterbacks, but both are extensively familiar with Broncos offensive coordinator, and former 49ers quarterbacks coach, Rich Scangarello. Scangarello oversaw the development of both CJ Beathard and Nick Mullens when both arrived in 2017.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has expressed a desire to keep three quarterbacks on the roster because Beathard and Mullens are both too good to simply release. Trading one should certainly be on the table though, and the Broncos have a need at the position.
Shanahan appears to view Beathard, a former third-round pick, and Mullens, who went undrafted, on equal footing. Mullens posted better numbers in eight starts last year than Beathard has in his 10 career starts, but neither player is substantially better from a talent standpoint. That’ll make any trade and the potential return in that deal intriguing.
There’s also a chance the 49ers want both backups on the roster in the event that they suffer injuries at the position again this season.
Final rosters are due at 1:00 PM Pacific Time on Saturday, and the 49ers hold a distinct advantage with their additional talent behind Jimmy Garoppolo.
