49ers Make Quarterback Decision After NFL Season

The 49ers’ resiliency carried them into the divisional round, where they ultimately fell to the Seattle Seahawks, ending the season short of the franchise’s ultimate goal. 

Amid the setbacks, San Francisco also faced a major quarterback dilemma that dominated headlines. In Purdy’s absence, backup quarterback Mac Jones stepped in and led the 49ers to a 5-3 record in eight starts, throwing for 2,151 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions while keeping the offense afloat.

Jones’ performance raised questions about whether the 49ers would move him up the depth chart ahead of Purdy. But Purdy remained Shanahan’s clear starter, and the head coach repeatedly insisted that his health would determine his deployment rather than a hot hand elsewhere.  

As San Francisco begins its offseason build toward 2026, Jones’ future with the franchise has been one to keep an eye on. Amid speculation that the 49ers might part ways with the 27-year-old, The Athletic’s Diana Russini reported Saturday that the team is not looking to trade him this offseason.

“For teams looking to swing a deal for 49ers backup QB Mac Jones, I’m told San Francisco is not looking to part with the 2021 first-rounder,” Russini reported. “Things and offers can change, but the 49ers’ preference is to keep their Brock Purdy-Jones tandem intact for 2026.”

That stance comes amid offseason rumors linking Jones’ name to teams in need of quarterback help, including the Minnesota Vikings, but San Francisco appears intent on maintaining continuity at the position.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan and the organization have repeatedly emphasized they value Jones’ contributions and want him in the room next year; Shanahan even said he’d be “very surprised if Mac wasn’t around us next year” when asked about his status.