The San Francisco 49ers have made a bold move in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Indiana quarterback Kurtis Rourke, a decision that has added another intriguing element to their already deep quarterback room. Known for his precision passing and remarkable poise under pressure, Rourke’s selection sends ripples through the 49ers’ quarterback competition and raises questions about the team’s future plans at the position.
Kurtis Rourke’s journey to the NFL has been nothing short of impressive. After transferring to Indiana, Rourke quickly established himself as one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football. Over the course of his two seasons as a starter, he amassed over 4,000 yards through the air, with a touchdown-to-interception ratio that showcased his ability to make smart decisions. His stats reflect his high football IQ and exceptional arm strength, but it’s his leadership on the field that truly sets him apart. Rourke’s performance in big games — including a thrilling 35-30 victory over Michigan State in his senior season — helped elevate his draft stock significantly.
The 49ers’ quarterback room has been a subject of intrigue for several seasons. With veteran starter Brock Purdy leading the charge, the team also boasts former first-round pick Trey Lance and seasoned backup Sam Darnold. The selection of Rourke adds a new dynamic to this already crowded competition, sparking debates among fans and analysts alike about the team’s quarterback depth. While Purdy’s emergence in 2023 as a reliable leader has stabilized the offense, the 49ers have shown a willingness to draft quarterbacks with upside in recent years. Rourke’s selection speaks to the team’s long-term vision for the position and its commitment to maintaining depth at every critical position.
What makes Rourke particularly enticing is his ability to operate in both a pro-style offense and a spread system. His familiarity with a variety of offensive schemes makes him a versatile option in the 49ers’ quarterback room, a room known for its complex playbook under head coach Kyle Shanahan. Rourke’s experience with pre-snap reads, quick decision-making, and his ability to dissect defenses with laser-like precision could make him a natural fit in Shanahan’s system. His arm strength, coupled with his ability to make deep throws on the move, will offer an additional layer to the 49ers’ offensive versatility.
From a tactical perspective, Rourke’s fit within the 49ers’ offense could be seamless. While his natural ability to throw on the run mirrors Purdy’s playing style, Rourke has the added advantage of a more explosive arm and a stronger deep ball. This could be a significant asset for Shanahan, who is known for his play-action schemes and innovative offensive plays that stretch the field. Rourke’s ability to push the ball downfield while still maintaining precision on short and intermediate routes could open up new dimensions for an already dynamic offense.
However, it’s clear that Rourke’s selection doesn’t immediately threaten Purdy’s starting position, but it certainly sets the stage for a fierce competition down the road. With Lance and Darnold already in the mix, Rourke will need to prove that he can outlast and outperform both players in training camp to secure a meaningful role on the team. Nevertheless, the 49ers’ front office has shown in past seasons that they aren’t afraid to make bold moves at quarterback, and Rourke’s selection is yet another example of their proactive approach to building a championship-caliber team.
In sum, Kurtis Rourke’s addition to the 49ers marks the beginning of what could be a highly competitive era at the quarterback position. As the team continues to pursue a Super Bowl title, Rourke’s development will be something to watch, and whether he serves as the backup or eventually becomes the heir apparent to the starting job, his presence in the quarterback room is a positive one. With his blend of talent, intelligence, and leadership, Rourke has the potential to become an integral part of the 49ers’ future success.
