The San Francisco 49ers are turning to Mac Jones at quarterback while Brock Purdy recovers from injuries sustained in their recent win over the Seattle Seahawks. Purdy suffered a turf toe-like injury and a left shoulder issue that have sidelined him this week.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan described Purdy as a “long shot” to play against the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, though the team has not placed him on injured reserve. This decision indicates the 49ers believe Purdy’s recovery timeline is short enough to keep him eligible to return by Week 5, or possibly sooner.
Purdy’s injuries come at a difficult time for San Francisco, which is hoping to rebound from a challenging 6-11 season that landed them at the bottom of the NFC West. Thankfully for the team, September’s schedule is relatively soft, with upcoming matchups against the Saints, Cardinals, and Jaguars.
Their first tough test against a playoff team from last season won’t arrive until Week 5 when they face the Los Angeles Rams. Despite this, the uncertainty surrounding Purdy’s health has forced the 49ers to turn to a familiar face under center: Mac Jones.
Jones gets his chance in San Francisco
Jones, who will make his 50th career start this week, joins the 49ers amid a full-circle moment in his career. Many expected San Francisco to select Jones with the No. 3 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft after trading up, but the team ultimately chose Trey Lance.
At the time, Shanahan and general manager John Lynch were enamored by Lance’s athleticism and mobility, qualities that fit the evolving NFL quarterback profile. Lance, however, struggled with injuries and limited playing time in his first two seasons before being traded away in 2024.
Meanwhile, Jones was drafted 15th overall by the New England Patriots, where he became the only quarterback Bill Belichick selected in the first round during his tenure. Jones had a strong rookie campaign, earning a Pro Bowl nod, but he fell out of favor in New England, leading to multiple benchings and eventually a trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars. After a mixed stint in Jacksonville, Jones signed with the 49ers this offseason as a reliable backup to Purdy.
Jones’ familiarity with the team extends beyond the roster. He previously played alongside wide receiver Kendrick Bourne in New England, who rejoined the 49ers recently, offering Jones some continuity as he integrates into Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
San Francisco’s depth is being tested not only at quarterback but across other key positions. All-Pro tight end George Kittle was placed on injured reserve following a hamstring injury sustained in the Seattle game, and he is expected to return by Week 6. The absence of two offensive leaders presents a challenge, but the 49ers’ depth and strategic scheduling early in the season provide some breathing room.
Purdy’s five-year, $265 million contract signed this offseason underscores his importance to the franchise. While his absence is a setback, the team’s confidence in Jones to steer the offense until Purdy’s expected return reflects the resilience and flexibility that have become hallmarks of this 49ers squad.
As Jones prepares to start against the Saints, all eyes will be on how well he can lead a team with high expectations despite the early-season adversity.
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