Mac Jones Addresses Brock Purdy's QB1 Status After 49ers-Rams

Brock Purdy’s Injury

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed earlier this week that Purdy remains week-to-week after aggravating his toe injury against Jacksonville in Week 4. The setback has forced him to miss time after already sitting out two games earlier in the season.

The 49ers made a massive commitment to Purdy this past offseason, signing him to a five-year, $265 million extension. That investment, paired with Purdy’s résume, including leading San Francisco to Super Bowl 58, makes it clear why the organization views him as the face of the franchise.

Shanahan has not wavered on Purdy’s status, even as Jones has piled up strong numbers. Jones’ performance against the Rams was his best since arriving in San Francisco. Playing without top targets George Kittle, Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall, he leaned on running back Christian McCaffrey and wide receiver Kendrick Bourne to carry the offense.

Bourne, who once played alongside Jones in New England, exploded for 10 catches and a career-high 142 yards. McCaffrey added 139 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown, proving once again why he is the engine of the offense.

Even with a depleted roster, Jones made timely throws to extend drives and keep the 49ers in control. His poise helped San Francisco hold a 17-7 lead at halftime and rally again late after the Rams forced overtime.

While Jones’ 3-0 record as a starter has raised his stock across the league, the 49ers are not entertaining a quarterback change. Purdy’s contract and track record guarantee that he will be the QB1 once healthy.

In the meantime, Jones has given San Francisco peace of mind. His resurgence has kept the 49ers atop the NFC West at 4-1 and could attract trade interest from quarterback-needy teams at the deadline.

But for now, Jones is embracing his role. “I’m here to do my job,” he said. “Brock is the starter, and I’m just trying to help this team win.”