The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for a significant offseason as they negotiate a multi-year contract extension with quarterback Brock Purdy. With Purdy currently one of the lowest-paid starters from the 2022 NFL Draft class, the team's approach to backup quarterback spending is expected to shift. General Manager John Lynch acknowledged that Purdy's impending pay increase will have a broader impact on the team's budget, particularly affecting the future of backup quarterbacks like Sam Darnold, who recently transitioned to the Minnesota Vikings after a one-year stint with the 49ers.

The 49ers previously signed Darnold for $4.5 million during Purdy's recovery from elbow surgery. The team faces uncertainty with backups Joshua Dobbs and Brandon Allen, both poised for unrestricted free agency, and the potential return of former 49ers quarterbacks like C.J. Beathard, Nick Mullens, and Trey Lance, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys. As the market for quarterbacks heats up, the 49ers will need to balance their budget to accommodate Purdy's new deal while ensuring they have a solid plan for their backup position.

Quarterback Joshua Dobbs made a notable entrance in his first start for the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, throwing for a career-high 326 yards in a 47-24 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals. This accomplishment marks the highest passing yardage for a first-time starter in the 49ers' history. As he approaches unrestricted free agency, Dobbs expressed his desire to find a team where he can compete for a starting position or contribute significantly as a backup.

Having signed a one-year contract worth $2.25 million with San Francisco, Dobbs's season was influenced by head coach Kyle Shanahan's decision to opt for Brandon Allen as the backup to starter Brock Purdy. Following a series of events that saw Purdy sidelined, Dobbs stepped in as starter and demonstrated promise despite some turnovers.

Joshua Dobbs is looking towards the future after his performance in the 49ers' season finale against the Arizona Cardinals, where he was thrust into the starting role due to Brock Purdy's injury. Despite a solid effort, which included 326 passing yards and two touchdowns, Dobbs faced challenges with three turnovers, ultimately leading to a 47-24 defeat for San Francisco.

Dobbs, having spent the majority of the season as a backup, expressed his desire to seize the opportunity. He scored on a 1-yard run and connected with Ricky Pearsall for a touchdown, but costly mistakes hindered his team's chances. Coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged Dobbs' efforts but noted that the turnovers were detrimental.

The Arizona Cardinals ended their season on a high note, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 47-24 at home, showcasing key players despite being out of playoff contention.

Quarterback Kyler Murray led the charge with a standout performance, completing 25 of 35 passes for 242 yards and four touchdowns, tying his career high. His connection with young stars like Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. highlighted a potential for offensive growth moving forward.

Despite the challenges of a disappointing season, the Cardinals demonstrated that they could capitalize on weaknesses, with a solid rushing game and a revitalized passing attack, providing a glimpse of hope for the future.

The Arizona Cardinals secured a commanding 47-24 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in their season finale at State Farm Stadium, showcasing a dominant performance led by quarterback Kyler Murray. Murray threw for 242 yards and four touchdowns, effectively outpacing the 49ers’ Joshua Dobbs, as the Cardinals capitalized on their scoring opportunities.

PFF's analysts were on-site, evaluating players in real-time, with notable performance highlighted by Kyler Murray earning the highest grade among players at 88.0, followed by teammate Dadrion Taylor-Demerson at 87.2. The Cardinals finished with a strong offensive showing, with a 6.5 average yards per play.