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49ers Open Kurtis Rourke’s Practice Window for 21-Day Evaluation

The move gives San Francisco 21 days to gauge the rookie’s readiness as a 2026 backup.

Overview

  • The team activated the seventh-round quarterback from the reserve/NFI list, starting a 21-day practice window.
  • Kurtis Rourke is practicing after January 2025 knee surgery and is still expected to redshirt this season.
  • Reporting indicates he is unlikely to be added to the 53-man roster in the next three weeks unless an injury occurs.
  • The evaluation will measure whether he is an upgrade over practice-squad quarterback Adrian Martinez, an emergency addition.
  • San Francisco’s decision weighs his rookie contract and the club’s injury history, with the 2026 quarterback market—reportedly featuring multiple suitors for Mac Jones—shaping external options.