San Francisco 49ers QB Blaine Gabbert won’t be a lock to be the backup to QB Colin Kaepernick this year, and ESPN analyst and former general manager Bill Polian doesn’t think Gabbert will make the 53-man roster. Head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke like Gabbert, though, and they’ll give him a chance. ‘We thought highly of Blaine as an early entry into the 2011 NFL draft,’ said Baalke. ‘He is a high-character individual that will be given every opportunity to develop within our system and we are looking forward to working with him.’

Footballguys View: Gabbert has struggled working under pressure during his pro career. He’ll have to compete for the backup position, and with Harbaugh’s guidance perhaps Gabbert can start playing better. Colt McCoy’s a free agent, and the 49ers don’t have a third-string guy at this moment.
49ers | Blaine Gabbert not a lock as backup