49ers to start third-string QB Nick Mullens against Raiders

The San Francisco 49ers will be digging deep at the quarterback position on Thursday night.

The Niners will start Nick Mullens at quarterback against the Oakland Raiders. Mullens was originally the team’s third-string quarterback behind Jimmy Garoppolo and CJ Beathard, but injuries to both players have forced Mullens into action.

Mullens is in his second season since going undrafted out of Southern Miss. He was 31/43 for 396 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions during the preseason. He also rushed for two scores.

Beathard will still suit up for the game but as the backup. He has a wrist and thumb injury, and his hand was so swollen he was unable to grip a football on Monday and Tuesday.