After nearly a full year away from the NFL, quarterback Nate Sudfeld is officially back in the league — and back with a team that knows him well. The former Detroit Lions signal-caller has signed with the San Francisco 49ers, marking his second stint with the franchise and offering him another opportunity to contribute to one of the NFC’s top contenders.
Sudfeld, 30, had been a free agent since he was released by the Detroit Lions in the 2023 preseason. His release came after a brief but impactful period with the team, during which he served as a backup to Jared Goff. Despite not seeing significant playing time during his stint in Detroit, Sudfeld was respected as a steady presence in the quarterback room and a reliable option in case of emergency.
Now, after a year off the field and outside the league, Sudfeld finds himself back in San Francisco — a team he’s quite familiar with. He previously spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the 49ers, primarily in a backup and practice squad role. While he didn’t take the field for any regular season snaps during his first tenure with the Niners, he was often praised for his preparation, football IQ, and ability to support the starter from the sidelines.
His return to San Francisco could be seen as a strategic depth move by the 49ers, who are looking to maintain stability behind their starter, Brock Purdy. With Sam Darnold now with the Minnesota Vikings and questions around the depth at the quarterback position, bringing in a veteran like Sudfeld makes sense. He already knows the system, the coaching staff, and the team culture — all factors that make his reintegration smoother and more effective.
From Sudfeld’s perspective, this signing is more than just another job. It’s a second chance to reignite his NFL career. A sixth-round draft pick out of Indiana in 2016, Sudfeld has spent time with multiple teams — including the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was part of the Super Bowl LII-winning squad, and where he saw his most meaningful NFL action. Over his career, he has thrown for just over 180 yards with one touchdown and one interception. While not a prolific player statistically, Sudfeld has carved out a niche for himself as a dependable third-string or backup quarterback — someone who can step in when needed and help guide younger players in the film room and on the practice field.
For the 49ers, whose championship window is very much open, depth at every position matters — especially at quarterback. The team knows better than most how quickly a season’s trajectory can change with a single injury. Just last season, their QB depth was tested, and having a player like Sudfeld who can seamlessly step into a supporting role provides valuable insurance.
Whether or not Sudfeld sees the field in 2025 remains to be seen. But what’s clear is that both player and team believe in the value of their reunion. For Sudfeld, it’s a shot at redemption and continuation. For the 49ers, it’s a low-risk, high-familiarity move that strengthens one of the most important positions in football.