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Darnold completed 16 of 26 pass attempts for 189 yards and a touchdown while rushing seven times for 19 yards and another score in Sunday's 21-20 loss to the Rams. He also lost a fumble.
The 49ers decided to rest starting quarterback Brock Purdy along with a handful of other key players Sunday, affording Darnold the opportunity to make his first start as a member of the team. The third overall pick from the 2018 Draft looked more polished and decisive in the pocket, even showing off his arm strength on a couple of deep completions in the face of pressure. That brief showcase will help Darnold's efforts to seek a new contract this offseason as an unrestricted free agent. Until then, the 26-year-old will continue backing up Purdy for San Francisco's upcoming playoff run.
