NFL insider links 49ers to QB Baker Mayfield

With uncertainty surrounding Brock Purdy's availability for the 2023 season, the San Francisco 49ers will likely be searching for a veteran quarterback this offseason. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Niners could have their eye on a former No. 1 overall pick to fill the void under center.

"I could absolutely see [John] Lynch and Kyle Shanahan going in on someone like Baker Mayfield, who has experience in that type of offense and a boatload of starting experience," Breer wrote. "Keep an eye on that one." 

If the 49ers decided to go the Mayfield route, he'd presumably come cheap. However, San Francisco might have a few bidders to contend with, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore Ravens, and Las Vegas Raiders, who've emerged as rumored suitors for Mayfield. 

Mayfield has yet to live up to his draft stock upon entering the NFL, and he's undoubtedly a risk, having played for three teams already only five seasons into his NFL career. Though with few alternatives in free agency, Mayfield might be the 49ers' best option. 

Last season, Mayfield went 2-8 as a starter, splitting time with the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams. The 27-year-old completed 60 percent of his passes, throwing for 2,163 yards with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 12 games.

Before Purdy suffered an elbow injury in San Francisco's NFC title game loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the 49ers were probably in the market for an experienced free-agent QB anyway. While Purdy's injury requiring surgery forced the 49ers' hand, the need may be more alarming than initially thought.

Earlier this week, Lynch revealed on "49ers Talk with Matt Maiocco" that Purdy had his surgery postponed after an examination concluded there was too much swelling and stiffness in the quarterback's elbow. Lynch confirmed that the initial six-month timetable for recovery is still on the table, but it's more of a guideline than a sure thing.