With starting quarterback Brock Purdy sidelined due to an elbow injury, Joshua Dobbs is preparing to make his first start of the 2024 season in the 49ers’ season finale against the Arizona Cardinals.
The game presents a valuable opportunity for Dobbs, a well-traveled quarterback, to make a lasting impression.
“Every chance you get to step on the field is an audition — not just for your current team, but for all 31 other teams,” Dobbs said Thursday, as reported by the Associated Press. “With my contract expiring in March, this is a great opportunity to showcase my abilities both in the 49ers’ system and for potential future opportunities. I’m focused on playing my best and letting the free agency process take care of itself.”
Purdy sustained his injury in the fourth quarter of the 49ers’ Week 17 loss to the Detroit Lions. Dobbs stepped in and completed three of his four pass attempts for 35 yards, adding a 7-yard rushing touchdown.
This time last year, Dobbs had already played for three different teams — the Browns, Cardinals, and Vikings. After starting the 2023 preseason with Cleveland, he was traded to Arizona before Week 1, where he started the team’s first eight games and posted a 1-7 record.
When the Vikings lost Kirk Cousins to an Achilles injury, Dobbs was traded to Minnesota, where he made a memorable debut, leading the team to victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9. His performance fluctuated after that, as he went 2-2 as a starter.
Dobbs joined the 49ers this offseason after Sam Darnold left to sign with Minnesota. Now, with another chance to prove himself, he’s appreciating the stability of staying with one organization for an extended period.
“It’s been refreshing to remain with one team throughout the year,” Dobbs shared. “It’s helped to work within the same system, with the same coaches and teammates, and get consistent feedback. That’s been a positive experience.”
Dobbs will have the chance to put his skills on full display during Sunday’s matchup against the Cardinals, with kickoff set for 4:25 p.m. ET.
