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Former teammate Boone expects Gabbert to be 49ers' starting QB

Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The momentum behind Blaine Gabbert winning the San Francisco 49ers' starting quarterback job has escaped the Bay Area.

Gabbert's quest to beat out Colin Kaepernick has been picking up steam since he took over as the starter midway through last season and has strengthened throughout the offseason.

Former teammate Alex Boone, now a guard for the Minnesota Vikings, expects Gabbert to win the job in training camp. Boone and Gabbert spent the last two seasons together with the 49ers.

"I think, to be honest, that Blaine did a great job last year. And from what I know of Blaine, I think he's going to take the reins," Boone told NBC Sports Radio, according to CSNBayArea.com. "I mean I think he's a good guy, he knows what he's doing out there and he just has the support of the group. So I think that's something to look forward to."

Gabbert has had the luxury of taking all the first-team snaps through offseason workouts as Kaepernick has been nursing several injuries.

The added practice time could go a long way in the training camp competition as both quarterbacks will be in their first season in head coach Chip Kelly's unique offensive system.

San Francisco opens training camp July 30.

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