Though the San Francisco 49ers didn't prevail in Super Bowl 58, Brock Purdy's performance in going toe to toe with Patrick Mahomes should have answered any lingering doubts over whether he is the long-term answer at quarterback.

Purdy looks poised to be the Niners' quarterback for years to come, and will likely be extended by San Francisco next offseason after the 2024 campaign.

But, as the 49ers prepare for an offseason in which they are scheduled to have 11 draft picks, Purdy's status as their franchise quarterback should not preclude them from taking another young signal-caller to develop behind him, especially in a draft heavy on quarterback talent.

A to Z Sports' James Foster has 22 quarterbacks inside the top 300 of his big board, with many of the players likely to still be available on day two or day three of the draft blessed with extensive experience at the college level. The likes of Michael Pratt, Sam Hartman and Taulia Tagovailoa all have at least three seasons as a starting quarterback under their belt.

The 49ers know the value of that college experience better than anyone, Purdy having emerged as a seventh-round gem after playing four seasons at Iowa State.

San Francisco has more pressing issues at hand than the quarterback position. The 49ers need to refresh a top-heavy roster by hitting on several picks to ensure they are still in a position to contend in the coming years.

But, having already seen Purdy suffer a major injury in the NFC Championship Game at the end of the 2022 season, the Niners also know the importance of having quarterback insurance policies.

With backups Sam Darnold and Brandon Allen both set for free agency, the 49ers do not have an insurance policy under contract for 2024.

The Niners may be able to re-sign one of that duo but, with cap space at a premium for San Francisco, it would behoove them to take advantage of a deep quarterback class and give themselves a young but experienced backup whom they can develop to step up in case of an emergency at a position where they finally have their long-term answer.

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