© Mark J. Rebilas | 2019 Sep 8
We’re talking quarterbacks, folks. The 49ers are reportedly adding one to their ranks, though it’s not exactly an earth-shattering move. According to reports, San Francisco will sign Josh Johnson, who had two stints with the organization, last with Jim Harbaugh in 2014, and who played under Harbaugh at the University of San Diego.
It was first reported by NFL Network’s Andrea Kremer and confirmed by Matt Barrows of The Athletic.
Addendum: League source says #49ers are signing QB Josh Johnson to the practice squad. He'll start getting COVID-19 testing this week so he can take part in next week's practices.
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) November 6, 2020
Johnson, 34, has been with 13 NFL teams at some point throughout his career, but last threw an NFL pass when he started three games for Washington in 2018. Washington went 1-2 in those games while Johnson went 52-of-91 with three touchdowns and four interceptions.
Despite spending time with the 49ers in both 2012 and 2014, he never threw a pass for the team. Johnson was a four time I-AA All-American at the University of San Diego under Harbaugh, and was drafted by the Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2008 draft.
Johnson last played professionally in 2019 for the Los Angeles Wildcats of the XFL. Before the season was cancelled due to COVID-19, Johnson was arguably the league’s best quarterback, posting a 106.3 QB rating while throwing 11 TDs and 2 INTS in four games.
Johnson will compete with Nick Mullens and C.J. Beathard for playing time as Jimmy Garoppolo remains out with an ankle issue.