When a team’s franchise quarterback goes down with an injury and misses multiple games, it usually spells doom for that team and their season. Brock Purdy missed multiple weeks with a turf toe injury, and the 49ers turned to Mac Jones in his absence.
In eight games, the 49ers ripped off five wins, including an unlikely win over the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium with a ragtag group of weapons. Sporting a 69.6 completion percentage and a 13 touchdown to six interception ratio, Jones proved he can command an offense and kept the 49ers afloat on the way to 13 wins and a playoff win.
Unfortunately, Purdy has dealt with injuries, and the 49ers know the importance of having a capable backup who can run the offense and win games. Jones is set to back up Purdy again, but has put himself in position for a payday next offseason.
Basic Info
Age: 28
Experience: 5 accrued seasons
Height: 6’3
Weight: 214 pounds
Cap Status
Jones’ guaranteed compensation for 2026 is $1,250,000, with a base salary of $1,400,000. Also, Jones has a $508,000 signing bonus, a $340,000 per-game roster bonus, a $100,000 workout bonus, and $500,000 in other bonuses. The former Patriots and Jaguars quarterback is set to hit free agency next season.
How does Jones fit in Kyle Shanahan’s offense?
Quick, timing throws are Jones’ specialty, and blended with Shanahan’s offense makes for a glove-and-hand fit for the two. Jones knows where the ball should go and gets the ball to his receivers with room to gain yards after the catch. It’s helpful that Jones isn’t skittish in the pocket and sticks in when a defender is bearing down on him.
What are realistic expectations for Jones in 2026?
The best-case scenario is Purdy plays all 17 games. 2023 was the closest Purdy came to playing every game, but to be fair, he missed the season finale because the 49ers had nothing to play for after clinching the number one seed. If he does miss a game or multiple games, the 49ers have the utmost confidence in Jones. Having a backup quarterback of this caliber is an ace up the sleeve for Shanahan and the 49ers. Hopefully, Jones doesn’t have to play, but if he does, the 49ers will expect to win football games.
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