Head coach Kyle Shanahan gave his players four days off following their victory over the Oakland Raiders last Thursday night. It was the NFL debut of second-year quarterback Nick Mullens, who was impressive in the win.
The players reported back to the team on Tuesday. That's when Shanahan told Mullens he would be the starter when the San Francisco 49ers host the New York Giants next Monday night. Beyond that, nothing is guaranteed.
Mullens, who started because C.J. Beathard was dealing with a right wrist and thumb injury, is taking it one game at a time. He joined 95.7 The Game on Wednesday night and spoke with Damon Bruce. Has Mullens unseated Beathard as the starter for the remainder of the season or could fans see another switch at quarterback beyond Week 10?
"You're not going to be given anything, and you obviously understand how the business of the NFL works," Mullens told Bruce. "That's why you just have to prepare like you're going to start each week and just be ready when your name is called."
The last time a 49ers quarterback not named Jimmy Garoppolo put together back-to-back wins in a season was 2014. Has Shanahan spoken to Mullens about what could happen if he leads a two-game winning streak headed into the bye week?
"Not at all," Mullens responded. "You take one day at a time, one step at a time, and really only have to talk about scenarios if they come up. The situation we're in right now is we have the Giants on Monday night, and that's all that's going to matter for us."
Monday's game will feature two-time Super Bowl champion Eli Manning versus the 49ers' practice squad quarterback turned starter. Mullens' second career start will be another opportunity for him to showcase his talent in front of a national audience.
"You obviously grow up watching Monday night football, very aware of Eli and the success that he's had, and so it's cool," Mullens said. "It's just a great opportunity to go and show what you're made of."
You can listen to the entire conversation with Mullens below.
