49ers QB Kurtis Rourke Faces NFI List: How Will San Francisco Respond?

By Jason Bolton July 17, 2025 09:12

As the San Francisco 49ers began their 2025 training camp, rookie quarterback Kurtis Rourke was officially placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, a move that is expected to sideline the promising young signal-caller for the start of his professional career. Rourke, the team’s seventh-round pick (No. 227 overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, is recovering from his second ACL tear in three years, a serious setback that has raised questions about his immediate availability and the 49ers’ depth at the quarterback position.

Rourke entered the draft as a highly regarded prospect despite his injury history. After a standout collegiate career at Indiana where he threw for over 3,000 yards, 29 touchdowns, and just five interceptions while finishing ninth in Heisman Trophy voting he was seen as a player with significant upside. However, he suffered a partial ACL tear before his senior season and managed to play through the injury before undergoing reconstructive surgery in January 2025. This history was well known to the 49ers, but the team expressed optimism that Rourke would be able to contribute once healthy.

General Manager John Lynch acknowledged the situation while speaking post-draft: “We took Kurtis understanding that he wouldn’t be cleared by the time camp started. We believe in his talent and character and are committed to his long-term development.” Head coach Kyle Shanahan echoed this sentiment, noting, “Kurtis is a gifted player who unfortunately has been set back by injuries. We see a future for him here, even if his rookie year might be limited.”

Rourke’s placement on the NFI list means he will not participate in practices initially, giving him time to complete his ACL rehabilitation without rushing back prematurely. Teams use this designation for players with injuries unrelated to NFL activities in Rourke’s case, the injury occurred during college football. The designation also means the 49ers are not obligated to pay his full salary until he is medically cleared, providing the franchise some roster flexibility.

The immediate implication for San Francisco is that their quarterback depth chart remains led by Brock Purdy, coming off a solid 2024 campaign, along with offseason signee Mac Jones and backup Tanner Mordecai. Given Rourke’s uncertain timetable, the 49ers’ veteran options will need to carry the workload during training camp and early-season reps.

Analysts expect Rourke’s 2025 impact to be minimal. Ari Koslow of FantasyPros stated, “It’s unlikely Rourke makes a tangible contribution this season. His development will be a multi-year project given the severity of an ACL injury, especially with his history of reinjury.” However, scouts emphasize that Rourke’s football acumen and mobility, when healthy, could make him a valuable asset down the road.

Rourke’s resilience is notable; after suffering a similar knee injury at Ohio University, he transferred to Indiana and still delivered an impressive final season despite the lingering damage. His younger brother, Nathan Rourke, a star quarterback in the CFL, has publicly supported Kurtis through his recovery journey, underscoring the family’s football pedigree.

In summary, the 49ers’ decision to place rookie Kurtis Rourke on the NFI list reflects a cautious and prudent approach to managing his health. While this likely means the 2025 season will focus on recovery rather than immediate playing time, the commitment signals faith in his long-term potential. As John Lynch said plainly, “We’re investing in Kurtis’s future, and when he’s ready, we believe he can be a significant part of our offense.” For now, San Francisco will lean on their established quarterbacks but continue to support their promising rookie as he battles back from injury.