The speculation surrounding Mac Jones’ tenure with the San Francisco 49ers has finally come to an end. After weeks of rumors and debates about whether the talented quarterback would seek a starting role elsewhere or remain as Brock Purdy’s reliable backup, the team has made its intentions clear. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the 49ers have no plans to trade Jones this offseason and are fully committed to bringing him back for the 2026 season.
This decision puts to rest the endless chatter that began early in the 2025 campaign. The 49ers, perennial contenders in the NFC, faced a slew of injuries last season, including a significant one to starting quarterback Brock Purdy at the outset. Jones, acquired as a backup, stepped up admirably, showcasing why he was once a first-round draft pick. His performances not only kept the team afloat but also reignited discussions about his potential as a starter in the league.
Jones’ 2025 season with the 49ers was nothing short of a career revival. Filling in for the injured Purdy, he appeared in 11 games, starting eight of them. Over that span, he accumulated 2,151 passing yards, threw 13 touchdowns against just six interceptions, and maintained an impressive 69.6% completion rate. His passer rating soared to 97.4, translating to a solid 62.3 QBR—numbers that highlighted his efficiency in Kyle Shanahan’s intricate offensive system.
Under Jones’ guidance, the 49ers went 5-3 in his starts, proving he could handle the reins of a high-powered offense featuring stars like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle. It was a far cry from his earlier struggles with the New England Patriots, where inconsistent playcalling and roster changes hampered his development. In San Francisco, Jones looked comfortable, decisive, and capable of leading a playoff-caliber team.
Despite these strong showings, it was always understood that Purdy—affectionately known as “Mr. Irrelevant” after being the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft—would reclaim his starting spot upon recovery. Purdy’s return mid-season solidified the hierarchy, but Jones’ contributions opened the door to speculation: Would he be content as a backup, or would he push for a trade to a team needing a starter?
Financially, the decision to retain Jones is a no-brainer for the 49ers. The quarterback is entering the second year of a two-year, $8.41 million deal he signed with the team in 2025. For 2026, his base salary is set at $2,810,000, with a total cap hit of $3,980,000. In a league where quarterback contracts often balloon into the tens of millions, this is one of the most team-friendly deals for a proven backup.
Jones’ performance last season only amplifies the value of this contract. He provides high-level insurance against any future injuries to Purdy, who has dealt with health issues in the past. With the 49ers’ Super Bowl aspirations intact, having a quarterback like Jones—who can step in seamlessly—ensures the team remains competitive even in adversity.
By opting to keep Jones, the 49ers are doubling down on stability at the quarterback position. Shanahan’s offense thrives on precision and familiarity, and Jones has already demonstrated he fits the mold. This move also signals confidence in Purdy as the long-term starter while maintaining depth that’s the envy of many teams.
Of course, the NFL offseason is unpredictable. Trades can materialize unexpectedly, and Jones’ strong play could still attract interest from quarterback-needy franchises. But for now, Schefter’s report indicates the 49ers’ front office, led by general manager John Lynch, views Jones as an integral part of their roster.
As the 49ers look ahead to 2026, fans can breathe easier knowing the quarterback room is secure. The injuries that plagued the team last season are in the rearview mirror, and with Jones backing up Purdy, San Francisco remains a formidable force in the NFC West and beyond.
It’s over—the speculation, at least. Mac Jones is staying put in the Bay Area, ready to contribute to another championship chase.
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