Mac Jones Reflects on 49ers Future: 'It's a Business Decision'

Jones discusses his uncertain position with the 49ers after a strong season as Brock Purdy's backup.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mac Jones addressed the uncertainty surrounding his position with the San Francisco 49ers after a season that helped revive his NFL career. Jones seized the opportunity to start eight games in 2025, stepping in while Brock Purdy was sidelined due to a toe injury. Though appreciative of the guidance from coach Kyle Shanahan and the support of the organization, Jones acknowledged that decisions about his future will depend on what makes the most sense for both sides.

Why it matters

Jones' statistical output this season reflects his success as a starter, and the 49ers' decision to retain him as Purdy's backup highlights the organization's commitment to depth and experience at the quarterback position. However, the balance between player satisfaction and efficient team-building remains delicate, underscoring the ongoing business aspect of professional football.

The details

Jones helped the 49ers maintain playoff contention, winning five of those eight starts. He expressed a hopeful yet realistic mindset about what lies ahead, saying, 'I'm looking forward to doing it again next year, but as you know, it's a business, and they have to make a business decision, and I have to, too.' Jones' statistical output this season includes 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions.

  • In 2025, Jones started eight games for the 49ers while Brock Purdy was sidelined due to a toe injury.
  • Jones signed a two-year deal with the 49ers in March.

The players

Mac Jones

A quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who signed a two-year deal with the team in March and stepped in as the starter for eight games in 2025 while Brock Purdy was injured.

Brock Purdy

The starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who was sidelined due to a toe injury in 2025, allowing Mac Jones to start eight games.

Kyle Shanahan

The head coach of the San Francisco 49ers who helped guide Mac Jones and the team during the 2025 season.

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers who praised Mac Jones' presence and influence on the team during the 2025 season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Look, I signed a two-year deal here and I've absolutely loved it. I got that joy back that I was looking for. I talked about the PhD in football. I truly believe that I got that this year. (49ers coach) Kyle (Shanahan) helped me find that.”

— Mac Jones (Monday Mornings with Mitch)

“I'm looking forward to doing it again next year, but as you know, it's a business, and they have to make a business decision, and I have to, too. If I'm here, I'm going to be happy, and if something happens, we know what I can do.”

— Mac Jones (Monday Mornings with Mitch)

“Mac made this place better. He was outstanding this season. He picked us up in a huge way and it was a really fun process to watch him come in and the joy that he was playing with. He's got an infectious attitude that affects everybody on our team. It affected that quarterback room. Like Kyle (Shanahan) said, you always listen, but I know we're a better football team with Mac Jones on our roster.”

— John Lynch, General Manager (ESPN)

What’s next

The 49ers' management has confirmed that they plan to keep Mac Jones as Brock Purdy's backup next season, underscoring the team's confidence in Jones' ability to contribute both on and off the field.

The takeaway

Mac Jones' resurgence with the 49ers in 2025 highlights the delicate balance between player satisfaction and efficient team-building in the NFL. The 49ers' decision to retain Jones as Purdy's backup suggests the organization values depth and experience at the quarterback position, but Jones' future with the team remains uncertain as both sides must evaluate what aligns best with their goals.