49ers GM John Lynch: No Trade Discussions for QBs Nick Mullens, C.J. Beathard

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch told reporters Saturday that the team hasn't "had talks at all" about trading backup quarterbacks Nick Mullens or C.J. Beathard.

Lynch acknowledged it's possible teams begin reaching out ahead of 53-man roster cuts, but he has yet to have any discussions.

Mullens and Beathard are competing for the top backup spot behind Jimmy Garoppolo, who is returning from a torn ACL. Mullens replaced Beathard in the starting lineup for the final stretch of last season and appears to have a significant leg up in the race.

Beathard performed better in the 49ers' first preseason game, throwing for 141 yards and a touchdown against an interception on 13-of-17 passing. Mullens completed 11 of his 17 passes for 105 yards, also throwing a touchdown and a pick.

“I thought both of them made some good plays, but I thought both of them definitely had one really bad play,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters. “Thought that they [each] threw a pick that was pretty easy to see.”

Beathard will be the second quarterback to receive snaps behind Garoppolo in Monday's preseason game against the Denver Broncos. Mullens received the start in the preseason opener against Dallas.

It appears more likely that the 49ers would carry three quarterbacks into the 2019 season than trade either Beathard or Mullens. Garoppolo still only has 10 NFL starts under his belt and has already suffered two serious injuries during those appearances. Beathard and Mullens have value to the 49ers as basic insurance policies alone.

If a team is willing to part with a solid mid-round pick, the 49ers might wind up taking a phone call. But there's little reason to punt on value at the league's most important position given Garoppolo's inability to stay healthy thus far as a starter.