GLENDALE, Ariz. — Joshua Dobbs spent most of the 2024 NFL season in a backup role, handling mop-up action in one game through the first 17 weeks for the San Francisco 49ers.
With starter Brock Purdy out, Dobbs got the call in the finale against the Arizona Cardinals in what amounted to an audition for next season.
Dobbs had an up-and-down final game before hitting the free-agent market. He threw for for 326 yards and two touchdowns but also had three turnovers in the 49ers’ 47-24 road loss Sunday.
“It was great to be out there,” said Dobbs, who completed 29 of 43 passes. “Thought for three quarters we battled. Obviously, turnovers killed us — that was the difference in the game.”
Dobbs had a whirlwind 2023 season — including a stint in Arizona — before earning a backup role with San Francisco (6-11) this year. He was the third quarterback behind Purdy and Brandon Allen, attempting his only four passes in last Monday’s 40-34 loss to the Detroit Lions.