According to Michael Lombardi of SI.com, both Alex Smith and Shaun Hill will have an opportunity to start in preseason.
From SI.com:
Mike Nolan, the 49ers head coach, told the Sacramento Bee that both his quarterback candidates, Alex Smith and Shaun Hill, would have an opportunity to start an exhibition game and that he hoped one of them would be leading the competition by the third exhibition game Aug. 21 in Chicago. That player would then start the Chicago game and be the 49ers' opening week starter.
"Once a guy is the guy, he better stay ready and stay atop his game," Nolan said. "It's not like this is a locked-in job forever."
Look for the 49ers to play musical chairs at quarterback this year. One bad game will lead to a change. When the battle seems this close, making a change is not a hard issue.
49ers insider: Mac Jones may have some say in his NFL future
By David Bonilla
Feb 24
There will be no shortage of speculation surrounding San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones and his NFL future this offseason. The 49ers signed Jones to a two-year deal in 2025 to provide stability behind starter Brock Purdy — a move that paid off in a significant...
NFL insider: 49ers expected to have interest in Mike Evans
By David Bonilla
Feb 23
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to be among the teams with interest in veteran wide receiver Mike Evans when NFL free agency opens in the coming weeks. Evans is set to hit the open market after 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, potentially ending one of the most...
49ers NFL Combine Watch: Defensive Backs and Tight Ends Risers and Fallers
By Wayne "Breezie" Brown
Feb 28
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine continued Thursday with defensive backs and tight ends taking the field, and several performances could directly impact the San Francisco 49ers' draft plans.
With speed, versatility, and matchup flexibility becoming priorities across the league,...
49ers NFL Combine Watch: Defensive Linemen and Linebackers Risers and Fallers
By Wayne "Breezie" Brown
Feb 27
The NFL Scouting Combine always reshapes draft boards, and this year's defensive line and linebacker workouts created clear movement among prospects. Athletic testing, positional drills, and movement efficiency helped several defenders elevate their stock, while others left...