Baker Mayfield taking reins at QB for 49ers would be a ‘surprise,’ according to Kyle Shanahan

Despite the season-ending injury to Jimmy Garoppolo, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan doesn’t think they’ll be turning to a newly available quarterback for the rest of the season.

Garoppolo, who replaced the injured Trey Lance in Week 2, suffered a broken foot Sunday during San Francisco’s 33-17 win over the Dolphins.

And while the injury forced rookie third-stringer Brock Purdy into action in the first quarter, another option emerged for the 49ers a day later.

Jimmy Garoppolo’s season is over after suffering a broken foot on Sunday vs. the Dolphins

Baker Mayfield was released Monday by the Panthers after Week 13 following his struggles on the field, as well as some injury issues.

But it doesn’t seem likely that Mayfield will end up in the Bay Area. 

‘We look into everything, but that would surprise me right now,’ Shanahan told reporters on Monday.

‘We’ve got to discuss more this afternoon and stuff. I’ve always been a fan of his, but I feel really good about our players. We’ll look into everything, but I feel pretty good with where we’re at right now.’  

Baker Mayfield’s time with the Panthers lasted less than a season and he’s now on waivers

The former Browns quarterback began the season as the Panthers starter but it didn’t take long for things to haywire.

Mayfield suffered a high-ankle sprain that ruled him out of action from Weeks 6-8, and briefly lost his starting job upon returning until P.J. Walker suffered a high-ankle sprain of his own.

And after reclaiming his starting job in Week 11, Mayfield again was benched the following week, that time for former Jets quarterback Sam Darnold.

Brock Purdy is now the 49ers’ starter after injuries to Garoppolo and Trey Lance

In seven games (six starts) with the Panthers, Mayfield threw for just six touchdowns against six interceptions, and averaged 187.6 yards per game on a 57.8 completion percentage.

He would likely have to fall the 49ers waiver spot – No. 24 – for San Francisco to sign him, as he is unlikely to clear waivers (and be available as a free agent) according to ESPN.

Purdy, especially given the circumstances, filled in adequately for the 49ers on Sunday, tossing 210 yards for two touchdowns and one interception.

The seventh-round pick is expected to serve as the starter for the rest of the season for the 8-4 squad, who lead the NFC West.