San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan announced on Wednesday that Josh Dobbs would start this weekend in place of an injured Brock Purdy. While Sunday will mark Dobbs' first start with the 49ers, the quarterback has started 14 games in his career, including eight in 2023 with the Arizona Cardinals, the team he will face at State Farm Stadium.
Linebacker Fred Warner, who regularly faces Dobbs in practice and recalls going against him last season, shared his thoughts on the veteran quarterback.
"He's done a great job for us," Warner said ahead of practice. "Even more than that, I remember playing him last year, here, when he came to town with Arizona.
"He's a dynamic player, obviously a winner, a proven winner, being able to go into different organizations and win there on short notice. So, I'm excited for him and his opportunity."
Dobbs' ability to step in without warning and contribute was evident on Monday night against the Detroit Lions. After Purdy suffered a right elbow contusion with nerve inflammation, Dobbs took over and led the offense on a touchdown drive, completing three of four pass attempts for 35 yards and rushing for a seven-yard score.
Shortly after coming into the game, Josh Dobbs finds the end zone 👨?🚀
📺: #DETvsSF on ESPN/ABC
— NFL (@NFL) December 31, 2024
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/EHlgiMQBPB
Who needs a warm up.
— Josh Dobbs (@josh_dobbs1) December 31, 2024
Warner also praised Dobbs' leadership.
"I think it just comes natural, just the way that he comes about his work every single day, regardless of the situation, being the same person every single day," Warner said. "I think that's, honestly, what true leadership is, is being consistent through the good and the bad. And so, he's done a great job for us all season long."
Ahead of the season, Dobbs admitted he was surprised not to win the 49ers' QB2 job after competing with Brandon Allen during training camp.
"I feel like I played well in practice and in games when I had the opportunities," Dobbs said in September. "I think my film shows that. It's up to the coaches. And that's the decision they made."
Allen's experience with the 49ers last season likely gave him the edge. When Purdy sat out in Week 12 due to injury, Allen—rather than Dobbs—got the start.
"I know how it goes week to week," Dobbs said. "Things can change and stuff like that. Just keeping myself (ready). Keep playing my game and stay ready for my opportunities."