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Former Alabama National Champ Mac Jones Inks $7M Deal with 49ers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Mar 13, 2025 6:02 PM ET

Mac Jones has signed a two-year, $7 million dea l with the San Francisco 49ers, with $5 million guaranteed and a potential max value of $11.5 million, per ESPN.

This signing marks a fresh chapter for the 26-year-old quarterback, who’s been searching for stability since his promising rookie season with the New England Patriots in 2021. For the 49ers, it’s a savvy acquisition, adding an experienced backup to star quarterback Brock Purdy.

Jones, a former first-round pick, brings a unique backstory to the Bay Area. Back in 2021, San Francisco flirted with drafting him third overall, then pivoted to Trey Lance with the pick. Now, fate has reunited Jones with head coach Kyle Shanahan, whose innovative offensive mind was a key draw for the quarterback.

After a rollercoaster stint in New England—highlighted by a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie, followed by struggles under shifting coordinators—and a 2024 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5 as a starter), Jones is hungry to prove himself.

For the Niners, this move fills a critical gap. With Joshua Dobbs and Brandon Allen departing in free agency, Jones steps in as a seasoned No. 2, boasting 49 career starts and a 54-44 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Jones has shown that he is more than capable of thriving under the right system and coaching.

While Purdy remains the undisputed starter, Jones offers insurance and upside—potentially thriving in Shanahan’s system if called upon. It’s a low-risk, high-reward gamble for a team looking to rebound from a 6-11 season. The football gods, it seems, love a good redemption arc.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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