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There’s not a quarterback controversy in San Francisco. Nick Mullens’ strong outing against the New York Giants sowed discussions among 49ers fans of a possible change under center even when Jimmy Garoppolo is healthy. Head coach Kyle Shanahan strongly denied the possibility of that happening.
“No, that scenario doesn’t exist,” Shanahan on Wednesday told reporters in a video conference. “But I don’t think past one game either. So, that’s for you to do, but this is Jimmy’s team. He’s done a hell of a job for us and when he’s healthy, he’ll be playing again for us.”
That’s a strong statement from the coach regarding his starting quarterback, and it makes sense. As good as Mullens was vs. the Giants, the 49ers offense has a lower ceiling with him under center than Garoppolo. If San Francisco thought Mullens gave them a better chance to win, it wouldn’t have taken a Garoppolo injury to get him into the game.
Shanahan also addressed the possibility of Mullens starting over a healthy Garoppolo the Monday following the quarterback’s injury. He was asked in a video conference with reporters whether the team would push Garoppolo’s return back if Mullens played well vs. the Giants. He strongly pushed back on the idea.
“No, Jimmy’s our guy and if he’s good to go and the doctors say he’s healthy and he can go out there and protect himself and if Jimmy feels confident in doing it and gives us the best chance to win, in that case, then Jimmy will be out there,” Shanahan said. “If Jimmy’s not safe and he can’t protect himself, then we’ll go with Nick.”
Garoppolo didn’t practice Wednesday as he continues rehabbing a high ankle sprain he suffered in Week 2 vs. the Jets. If he continues to miss practice it’ll be Mullens under center again Sunday night vs. the Eagles. If Garoppolo is healthy, he’ll be back on the field.