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'If the 49ers Draft Mac Jones…': Ryan Clark Wonders About Alternate Reality for San Francisco
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

As the San Francisco 49ers find themselves in a quarterback controversy, the conversation has turned to what might have been if they had drafted Mac Jones instead of Trey Lance. Ryan Clark, an ESPN analyst, sparked this debate after observing Jones’s impressive performances as a starter in place of the injured Brock Purdy.

With the 49ers currently sitting at 4-1, Clark speculates that they could already have a Super Bowl under their belt if they had made a different choice in the 2021 draft. Jones’s recent performances have reignited interest in his potential, especially after leading the team to important victories while Purdy recovers from a turf toe injury.


Oct 2, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones (10) drops back to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

His ability to execute under pressure, including a game-winning drive against the Los Angeles Rams, has made a compelling case for his role as a starter. With his strong completion rate and critical touchdowns, Jones is proving that he can thrive in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive scheme.

San Francisco’ decision to draft Lance has been scrutinized, particularly given that he has struggled to find a consistent role since being selected third overall. Meanwhile, Jones has emerged as a capable leader who could have been the franchise quarterback San Francisco envisioned. This alternate reality has fans and analysts pondering how the team’s trajectory might have changed.

Jones’s success has led some to argue that he should remain the starter , regardless of Purdy’s recovery. The competition between the two quarterbacks has fueled discussions about their respective futures with the team. As San Francisco prepares for its upcoming match against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on their quarterback situation.

Sports Analyst Ryan Clark Wonders What Would’ve Happen if San Francisco 49ers Drafted Mac Jones


Oct 2, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Prime Thursday Night Football sideline reporter Kaylee Hartung (left) interviews San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones (10) after the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Clark dropped his thoughts about an alternate reality where San Francisco drafted Jones. This can be seen in a post shared by the sports analyst on his official X account.

“If the 49ers draft Mac Jones like was rumored instead of Trey Lance so many things are different. The 49ers probably win a Super Bowl, Mac Jones is one of the highest paid QBs in football, & we never find out just how good Brock Purdy is,” Clark tweeted.

While it’s impossible to rewrite history, the ongoing debate highlights the importance of strategic decision-making in the NFL draft. San Francisco has a wealth of talent on their roster, but the choice of quarterback could define its season and beyond.


September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones (10) during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Clark’s comments about the potential impact of drafting Jones have opened a Pandora’s box of “what if” scenarios for San Francisco. As the current season unfolds, how the team navigates its quarterback situation will be crucial in determining its success and possibly its championship aspirations.


September 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones (10) during the third quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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