Because Purdy went down with a turf-toe injury, Jones became the starting quarterback for the 49ers during the 2025 NFL season. The former New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback did a solid job, but the plethora of injuries around him did little to help his cause. As a result, Jones often found himself working with different weapons and rarely with the same group of talent around him.

Still, Jones weathered the storm and managed to produce. He kept the Niners afloat and in a playoff spot. However, when Purdy returned from injury, he reclaimed his place under center.

As Jones learned, he had simply been keeping the seat warm for Purdy. More of the same likely awaits him in 2026, so it’s safe to assume Jones may want out to run the show with another NFL organization.

Mac Jones’ stats with 49ers in 2025

Last season, Mac Jones appeared in 11 games for San Francisco. During his stint, Jones completed 201 passes for 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. Jones also rushed for 60 yards—which was the lowest total in his NFL career.

His stats confirm the Niners didn’t use Jones’ legs as much as his past teams had. Standing at 6’3” and 220 lbs (as listed on ESPN), mobility has never been one of Jones’ main attributes. However, he did show some flashes of it during his rookie season with the Patriots.

Mac Jones’ contract

After signing Jones to a two-year, $8.41 million contract in last year’s free agency, the 49ers now face a decision regarding his future. If San Francisco moves Jones prior to June 1 (when the new league year begins), it would take on $1.79 million in dead cap while saving $1.27 million.

Instead, if they move him after June 1, the 49ers would save $2.62 million in 2026, as they would take on a $448,000 dead cap hit that year and another $1.34 million in 2027. Perhaps this is why San Francisco’s demands are so high right now. Jones’ price could drop after June, when the financial stakes aren’t as high for the Niners.

What is this whole story about? The quarterback himself, now in the Bay Area, revealed that back in 2021, Kyle Shanahan had shown specific interest in bringing the former Alabama Crimson Tide player to the team.

“Kyle and I, we just have a great relationship, and he wanted me to be here with him when I was coming out of the draft,“ Jones said on the “Monday Mornings with Mitch” podcast. “Obviously, it went in different ways, but that’s what it’s all about — reconnecting with people that either see value in you or whatnot.”

He also added: “Just hearing the stories about Kyle and how he sees the run game and the pass game and running the team meetings, and it was just interesting. And finally, I got to see it this year, and that was just awesome.”

Ultimately, Shanahan finally saw his wish come true after the 49ers signed Jones to a two-year, $7 million contract to serve as Brock Purdy’s backup. Will Jones and the head coach continue working side by side for some more time?

Jones delivered solid performances in the Bay

During the 2025 NFL season, Mac Jones stepped up as a vital insurance policy for the San Francisco 49ers, taking over the starting role for eight games while Brock Purdy sidelined with a lingering turf toe injury.

Jones proved highly efficient in Kyle Shanahan’s system, finishing the regular season with 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions across 11 total appearances. He posted a career-high 69.6% completion percentage and a solid 97.4 passer rating, leading the team to a 5–3 record in his starts.

His performance was highlighted by a 342-yard game against the Rams and a nearly perfect outing against the Giants, effectively “steadying the ship” and ensuring the 49ers remained top contenders in the NFC before Purdy’s return late in the season.

“Honestly, I’m happy where I’m at. I love the 49ers. I want to keep winning and having fun. That’s all I care about,” Jones recently told TMZ Sports, where he was also asked about the substitution theory that has been mentioned by some of his teammates.

It’s worth noting that last season Jones threw a total of 13 touchdowns and six interceptions, totaling 2,151 yards in 11 games with the 49ers. He started eight games while filling in for Purdy, who was recovering from a foot injury, but eventually returned to the bench.

Jones could remain with the 49ers

One day before Jones’ recent comments to TMZ Sports, it was reported that the 49ers were not looking to move on from their backup quarterback for next season. He would remain alongside Purdy to continue supporting him and learning.

“The 49ers are NOT looking to trade Mac Jones this offseason. Things and offers can change, but the 49ers’ preference is to keep their Brock Purdy–Mac Jones tandem intact for 2026, per Dianna Russini,” wrote Coach Yac on X (@coach_yac).

As for the substitution theory that has caused some discomfort among teammates and has been linked to alleged injuries, Jones said he doesn’t know anything about it yet. Despite Joe Rogan mentioning the theory on several occasions, the quarterback said he doesn’t feel any different.

Despite the great performances he put together in the first weeks, it was clear that Mr. Irrelevant would reclaim his spot in Kyle Shanahan’s starting lineup upon returning from his injuries.

This opened the door to endless speculation about what would happen with Jones next season: would he remain behind Purdy, or would he look for a fresh start to take on a bigger role? For now, the 49ers have made a decision on the matter.

“Despite continued speculation, the 49ers have no plans to trade QB Mac Jones this off-season and fully intend to bring him back to back up Brock Purdy, per sources,” the insider Adam Schefter reported via X.

Jones’ numbers from last season

During the 2025 season with the San Francisco 49ers, Mac Jones experienced a significant career resurgence while stepping in for an injured Purdy. In 11 games (8 starts), he threw for 2,151 passing yards, recording 13 touchdowns against only 6 interceptions.

His efficiency was notably high under Shanahan’s system, finishing the year with a 69.6% completion rate and an impressive 97.4 passer rating (which translates to a strong 62.3 QBR).

These stats helped lead the 49ers to a 5–3 record in his starts, proving he could effectively manage a high-powered offense and solidifying his value as a reliable NFL signal-caller.

What is the contract situation of No. 10?

Mac Jones is currently entering the second year of the two-year, $8.41 million contract he signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 2025. For the upcoming 2026 season, he is scheduled to earn a base salary of $2,810,000, carrying a total cap hit of $3,980,000.

Given his efficient performance last season filling in for the Niners, this deal is widely considered one of the most team-friendly backup/bridge quarterback contracts in the league, providing San Francisco with high-level insurance at a manageable price.

“What Mac Jones did for himself this year, and for the 49ers, was reestablish himself as a starting quarterback that can win games. He has two years left on his contract. Two years total on his contract, one year left with the 49ers. You certainly wonder if they’ll end up trading him this offseason. They’re gonna have interest, there are going to be many teams in what could be a lackluster quarterback draft to need a guy and Mac Jones has showed, as he did as a a rookie, that he is the guy.”

Jones had a promising rookie year with the Patriots in 2021, but the following two seasons were very disappointing. In fact, his selection as the franchise quarterback was one of the reasons that led Robert Kraft to part ways with Bill Belichick, due to the lack of results and the absence of a solid long-term plan. In 2024, the former Alabama player was traded to the Jaguars, and in 2025 he signed with the 49ers.

Who is 49ers starting quarterback?

Brock Purdy is the 49ers’ starting quarterback. Despite battling a toe injury this year, head coach Kyle Shanahan has confirmed that the player is ready to return for the game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Rapoport mentions that Shanahan doesn’t want any controversy in his locker room and that if Purdy is healthy, he will be the QB1 for the rest of the season. However, thanks to his performances, Jones may have managed to redeem himself and generate interest from other teams for 2026.

“Kyle Shanahan has been very clear. There’s no quarterback controversy. He has full confidence that Brock Purdy can be the guy when fully healthy. With his starting stint coming to an end, Mac Jones emerged as a prime trade candidate for 2026 for league full of teams that need one.”

Shanahan delivered a range of news on KNBR, including confirmation that the 49ers have Purdy ready to play and will use him against the Cardinals. He also confirmed when Rickey Pearsall will be available to play. For now, Jones will remain the QB2.

“Kyle Shanahan on KNBR said that he thought of activating Brock Purdy last week, but this week’s two main practices — ft. no pain in Purdy’s toe — have fully convinced the 49ers to bring back QB1: ‘No point in messing around. It’s time to go,’” wrote David Lombardi, reporting Shanahan’s comments.

Purdy revealed what happened against Jacksonville

Everyone remembers that Purdy was made available ‘too soon’ ahead of schedule for the game against Jacksonville, where his injury unfortunately recurred. However, he revealed that he felt fine leading up to the game, but the opposing defense was responsible for his injury returning.

“No. Going into that week I felt good. I really did. I thought I was going to be good to go. I just unfortunately got caught in a bad position with my toe again and it just reaggravated it,” Purdy said in a recent press conference.

Mac Jones available if needed

Jones will obviously be watching closely to see how Purdy feels during the game against the Cardinals. Jones has done an exceptional job as a starter so far (5-3-0, 2,151 yards, 13 TDs, 6 INTs), and analysts hold him in high regard, as highlighted by Greg Cosell.

“Right now the 49ers offense is very condensed, which I think makes Mac Jones’ numbers a little deceptive. He’s played very, very well for what he is… The longest pass play was 22 yards. There’s no real verticality to their pass game,” Cosell stated.

After the 49ers’ recent game against the Rams, head coach Kyle Shanahan backed his quarterback despite the loss. “Definitely gave us a chance to win,” Shanahan said, emphasizing the leadership and confidence Jones has brought to the team.

Teammates like Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle echoed that praise. “He’s made a Pro Bowl and is a hell of a quarterback,” said McCaffrey. Kittle added, “I did not think he’d be this good. He’s awesome. One hell of a football player. 33 of 39 or whatever the statistic was, that’s a hell of a football game.”

How much money has Jones earned in the NFL so far?

Jones has been earning in the NFL since 2021, playing for three different teams. He has accumulated a total of $19.33 million in career earnings so far, a figure that will rise to $23.9 million by the end of the 2026 season when the 49ers pay his final salary of $4.6 million.

The team with which Jones has earned the most money is the Patriots, totaling $12.8 million. The 49ers now hold the second spot, and he earned the least money during his short stint with the Jaguars in 2024, receiving only $2.78 million.

In comparison to Brock Purdy’s salary of $1 million plus an $8 million signing bonus, Jones has turned out to be a relatively inexpensive quarterback. He is listed as a backup but is currently playing as if he were a starter on a rookie-level salary. If he continues to have a strong season, the 49ers are likely to offer him a better deal for the future.

Now, many are wondering what will happen when “Mr. Irrelevant” finally recovers from his turf toe — a return that currently has no set date. Could Jones’ current form somehow influence decisions regarding Purdy’s potential return?

Shanahan addressed the issue with the media and made his stance clear. He emphasized that Purdy’s recovery has nothing to do with the decision to keep or not Mac Jones as the 49ers’ starting quarterback.

“They’re not related,” the HC said, via 49ersWebzone.com. “This is Brock’s team and if Brock’s good to go and everything and can play like Brock, there’s no decision to be made. It’s just nice as we go through this with Brock with the uncertainty of the toe, it is cool to have someone playing as good as Mac is. But, they’re not related.”

What injury is keeping Purdy out and when could he return?

Brock Purdy remains sidelined due to a persistent turf toe injury. While the team has not given a firm timeline, Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated that Purdy is considered week-to-week and the team is targeting Week 10’s matchup against the Los Angeles Rams as a potential opportunity for his return, at least as a backup. The Niners are taking a cautious approach after Purdy previously aggravated the injury.

Mac Jones’ impressive form

San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Mac Jones has been a major story, stepping up in the absence of the injured starter and playing some of the best football of his career.

Jones has piloted the team to a solid 5-2 record in his seven starts this season, posting impressive numbers with a 93.6 passer rating and a 67.2% completion rate. His 1,832 passing yards and 10 touchdowns against just 5 interceptions through Week 9 have kept the Niners firmly in the playoff picture, showing a significant career resurgence in Kyle Shanahan’s system.

What’s next for the 49ers?

The San Francisco 49ers are heading into a crucial part of their schedule with three important matchups. They first host a pivotal divisional showdown against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi’s Stadium, followed by a trip to the desert to take on the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale.

The team then returns home for a Monday Night Football clash against the Carolina Panthers. With playoff positioning on the line, the Niners must capitalize on their two home games to maintain momentum through this demanding stretch.

Brandon Aiyuk is one of the standout players on the Bay Area roster; however, a serious knee injury last season has still kept him from seeing action alongside his teammates this campaign.

Kyle Shanahan indicated that the 49ers might begin Aiyuk’s 21-day practice window next week. This period would allow the WR to transition from the reserve/PUP list to on-field practice under supervision, without immediately taking a spot on the 53-man roster.

Once the window starts, the team has up to 21 days to activate him; if they don’t, he will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. “Yeah, I believe he’s getting a lot closer,” the HC said via David Lombardi. “It could [happen next week]. I think we’re week-to-week now, so hopefully, it will be sooner than later.”

“Oh, yeah, there’s hope he plays. More importantly than hope, there’s some evidence. He’s making really good progress. He’s been putting in the time, and I think that it’s coming nearer as to when he’s going to be out there,” John Lynch also added.

What injury did Aiyuk suffer?

San Francisco’s top wideout, Brandon Aiyuk, has yet to take the field for the 2025 NFL season as he continues his recovery from a devastating knee injury suffered in Week 7 of the 2024 campaign. Aiyuk tore both his ACL and MCL, forcing an extended rehabilitation that has kept him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.

While General Manager John Lynch reports “strong progress,” the severity of the dual-ligament damage means the 49ers are exercising extreme caution, with his return date still uncertain deep into the season.

Injuries: The 49ers’ unwanted karma

The San Francisco 49ers’ 2025 season has been defined by a relentless wave of key injuries, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback Brock Purdy has been a consistent casualty, sidelined for multiple games with a painful toe injury (turf toe) that has been difficult to shake, forcing the team to rely on backup Mac Jones.

The tight end room also took a major hit early when All-Pro George Kittle went down in Week 1 with what he later revealed was a significant hamstring tear, though he has recently returned to action.

Adding to the depth concerns, promising second-year wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has missed multiple games with a stubborn knee injury, an issue that has not responded as quickly as the team hoped. This cluster of injuries to critical playmakers has severely tested the depth and resilience of the 49ers’ offense as they push through the middle of the schedule.

In 2022, while still with the Patriots, Jones made headlines for saying, “I want to be coached harder. I want to be a better player.” It was a statement that reflected his frustration with a rigid offensive system that often limited his creativity. Now, under Shanahan, he seems to have found the balance he was searching for.

Jones elaborated on Shanahan’s influence, noting, “I’ve been super impressed with his messaging. He’s a great public speaker, and he also backs it up.” That comment carries weight, given how differently Shanahan runs his meetings compared to Belichick.

Despite being the backup quarterback, Jones has already made five starts for the 49ers this season as Brock Purdy deals with a painful turf toe injury. He’s performed admirably, posting a 4-1 record with 1,404 passing yards, six touchdowns, and an 89.8 passer rating.

A coach who listens, a quarterback who’s growing

Jones credits much of his comfort in to the open communication Shanahan fosters. “He’s always trying to come up with something new to get to the team,” Jones said. That creativity has not only expanded his understanding of offensive play design but also reignited his confidence as a leader.

As the 49ers prepare for a potential deep playoff run, Jones’ growth under Shanahan could prove crucial. Whether he remains behind Purdy or takes the field again, his development under a coach who “backs it up” may redefine how he’s viewed across the league.

Mac Jones stepped in to lead the Bay Area offense following the injury to “Mr. Irrelevant,” and judging by his performances in recent weeks, the former Patriots quarterback has risen to the occasion.

This weekend will be no exception, as the team announced on its official website that Brock Purdy is still not fully recovered from a foot injury and will once again be ruled out.

“Quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) have officially been ruled out for Week 7. With Purdy sidelined for the third straight game, Mac Jones is set to make his fifth start under center.”

A luxury replacement

Former first-round pick Mac Jones has completely revitalized his career by stepping in for the injured Brock Purdy, proving to be far more than just a competent backup for the San Francisco 49ers.

In his four starts, Jones has been instrumental in securing three crucial 49ers wins, demonstrating remarkable efficiency by completing over 67% of his passes for a total of 1,252 yards with six touchdowns.

His seamless transition into the system, marked by quick decision-making and impressive ball velocity, has the 49ers fanbase buzzing, offering a high-level safety net as Purdy continues to recover from a turf toe injury. Jones’ play has not only kept San Francisco at the top of the NFC West but has sparked a legitimate conversation about the team’s long-term quarterback depth.

A crucial test against the Falcons

The San Francisco 49ers face a pivotal SNF showdown against an ascending Atlanta Falcons team that has firmly established itself as a legitimate threat, especially after their impressive upset victory over the Bills on Monday night.

For San Francisco, coming off a tough road loss and dealing with lingering injury questions, securing a win against the 3-2 Falcons is absolutely crucial. A victory here is not merely about staying atop the NFC West; it’s a critical statement win to re-establish their identity as a true Super Bowl contender, especially as they prepare to defend their home turf against a physical Atlanta squad powered by a dominant rushing attack and a top-tier defense.