Is a three-way quarterback battle brewing for the San Francisco 49ers? During an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper, head coach Kyle Shanahan raves about Sam Darnold. The former first-round pick is currently battling Brock Purdy and Trey Lance for playing time.

The San Francisco 49ers seem to want to keep all options open in their search for a starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Although Brock Purdy and Trey Lance are currently in the lead, newcomer Sam Darnold also seems to be in the running.

In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, head coach Kyle Shanahan enthused.

“Steve Young took a little bit of time to get going, too. I don’t really like to compare quarterbacks to Steve Young, but why shouldn’t Sam be able to do that development. He has the skills and the personality. I’m glad we have such a talented player in our ranks,” Shanahan said.

San Francisco 49ers: New start for Sam Darnold?

Young earned the starter’s job with the 49ers in his seventh NFL season, and was voted MVP in his eighth and 10th seasons. He won three Super Bowls in his career.

So far in his career, Sam Darnold has not been able to establish himself as a long-term starter. Inconsistent performances and injuries kept setting him back. The former first-round pick amassed 11,767 passing yards, 61 touchdowns and 55 interceptions in five seasons. As a runner, he recorded 745 rushing yards and twelve touchdowns.

For the 49ers, Darnold will now have to prove himself in training camp against Purdy and Lance, who should currently have the edge. 49ers officials stressed several times in recent weeks and months that Purdy will be the starter when he is fit.