C.J. Beathard

C.J. Beathard's Biography

Casey Jarrett Beathard was born on November 16, 1993, in the United States. He is a professional quarterback in American football and is currently a free agent. Before moving on to professional football, Beathard played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes. In the third round of the 2017 NFL draft, the San Francisco 49ers picked him.

Beathard spent his high school years at Battle Ground Academy in Franklin, Tennessee. He played for the Battle Ground Academy Wildcats. Once his high school football career was over, he committed to the University of Iowa. He took a year off from playing during his first year at college, a move referred to as ‘redshirting.’

During the 2013 season, Beathard made limited appearances in five games for the Hawkeyes. His college debut came when he played against Western Michigan Broncos on September 21. His performance during this match included a 54-yard completion and four rushes for 30 yards. Later in the season, he scored his first career collegiate touchdown during a match against Purdue Boilermakers. He managed another rushing touchdown in his next game against Nebraska Cornhuskers.

During the 2014 season, Beathard continued being a backup. When fellow Hawkeye, Jake Rudock, got injured in the first half of a game against Pittsburgh Panthers, Beathard had the chance to shine. His energetic performance, which saw Iowa beat Pittsburgh 24-20, sparked a debate about whether he should become a regular starter. Despite making such an impact, Beathard continued to serve mostly as a backup.

The 2015 season was Beathard’s shot at proving his ability, and he lived up to expectations. He was instrumental in leading the Iowa Hawkeyes to an undefeated 12-0 record. His outstanding performance earned him being selected as a second-team player on the All-Big Ten Conference football team that year. However, the team’s winning streak ended in a 16-13 loss to Michigan State Spartans in the Big Ten Championship.

In his final season with the Hawkeyes, Beathard led the team to an 8-4 record. Despite a valiant effort from Beathard who displayed stellar performances, the Hawkeyes were defeated by the Florida Gators in the Outback Bowl.

The 2017 Senior Bowl saw Beathard play for the North team. However, a hamstring injury limited his performance, and the North lost 15-16 to the South. Despite his injury, Beathard exhibited his ususal determination and went on to attend the NFL combine. Beathard ended his time at the University of Iowa on a strong note, having demonstrated his skills and abilities to representatives and scouts from all 32 NFL teams.

Based on his strong performance, Beathard was projected to be a sixth or seventh round pick in the 2017 NFL draft. The San Francisco 49ers, however, chose him in the third round as the 104th overall. He quickly signed a rookie contract worth $3.52 million for four years. His journey in the NFL began as a backup to Brian Hoyer.

Beathard’s first NFL appearance came in a game against the Washington Redskins in October 2017. He finished the game with 245 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Despite the 49ers’ loss, Beathard was named the team’s starter after the game. Beathard’s rookie season in the NFL saw him accumulate 1,430 passing yards and four touchdowns.

In 2018, Beathard was primed to be the backup to Jimmy Garoppolo. With a twist of fate, a severe injury to Garoppolo shifted Beathard into the main quarterback position. Beathard showcased his skill and determination, even as the 49ers endured several losses. Despite his best efforts, an wrist injury eventually benched him for the rest of the season.

In 2019, Beathard spent the season as a backup without playing time. However, in the 2020 season, due to injuries to other quarterbacks, Beathard got his chance to shine once again. He finished several games with decent performances, including throwing for 138 yards in a losing game against the Eagles and 100 yards against the Dallas Cowboys. In one of his final games of the season against the Arizona Cardinals, Beathard threw for 182 yards and three touchdowns, leading the 49ers to a 20-12 win.

Looking back at his prolific career, one thing is for sure. Beathard has built a reputation not just as a talented quarterback, but also as one who brings energy and determination to every game.