Is Sam Darnold starting in Week 8? 49ers’ QB situation explored with latest on Brock Purdy

Sam Darnold has not had an easy career ever since he was drafted No. 3 by the New York Jets in 2018. He has had to suffer through talent-poor teams, horrendous coaching and injuries.

His career as the starter in East Rutherford lasted just three years, as the Jets decided to trade him to the Carolina Panthers in anticipation of an ultimately failed revival under Zach Wilson. In Charlotte, he competed with Cam Newton, then Baker Mayfield for two years before becoming a free agent.

During the 2023 offseason, Darnold landed with the San Francisco 49ers – the first good contending team he has been on. The NFC West champions immediately put plenty of faith in him, naming him the backup over their 2021 No. 3 pick Trey Lance, who was shipped off to Arlington, Texas, and the Dallas Cowboys during preseason.

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San Francisco 49ers to start Sam Darnold with Brock Purdy concussed

Now, there is even bigger news awaiting Darnold.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the 49ers are expected to use their backup quarterback in Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals after main man Brock Purdy entered concussion protocol after their 17-22 loss at the Minnesota Vikings.

The 2022 "Mr. Irrelevant" had taken a blow to the head from linebacker Jordan Hicks during this sneak attempt:

But Purdy was not pulled from the game, and shortly afterward, he threw the first of his two interceptions. Furthermore, he did not start experiencing concussive-like symptoms until the plane back home, which led to his addition to the protocol.

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Former NFL veteran Dan Orlovsky: 49ers will be fine with Sam Darnold under center

If there is one Sam Darnold fan among NFL analysts, it is Dan Orlovsky. Back in August, the former journeyman made this bold claim on "First Take":

"I think Brock Purdy and/or Sam Darnold can take [the 49ers] to the Super Bowl, if I'm being dead honest. Absolutely. Sam Darnold is incredibly talented. He's the most talented quarterback they have on the roster, throwing-the-ball-wise."

And on Wednesday's episode of "NFL Live", Orlovsky again professed his praise for the sixth-year player:

"If [Brock Purdy] doesn't play, I do not expect them to skip a beat. I think they will be just fine with Sam Darnold. I have constantly believed that if Sam Darnold was placed that was similar to San Francisco, he would play worthy of that top draft pick.

"He's the most talented quarterback, physically, that Kyle Shanahan has had in that offense – at least since Matt Ryan."

Darnold has a 21-34 as a starter, having a winning record only twice – in 2019 (7-6) and 2022 (4-2).