49ers bolster quarterback room with addition of Sam Darnold

Darnold signing gives 49ers experienced backup to Trey Lance

Former Panthers starter brings upside to San Francisco quarterbacks room

The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to a one-year deal with former Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported Wednesday, per a source familiar with the situation.

Darnold, the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, spent the first four seasons of his career with the New York Jets before being traded to the Panthers in 2021.

In 52 career starts, Darnold has thrown for 10,624 yards, with 54 touchdowns and 52 interceptions.

The 49ers are hoping Darnold can provide a steady hand behind Trey Lance, who is expected to take over as the team's starting quarterback this season.

Darnold's signing gives the 49ers a quarterback with starting experience who can step in if Lance is injured.