Dianna Russini reports the 49ers are set on keeping QB Mac Jones as their backup for the 2026 season.
Adam Schefter also noted the team’s intention to have Jones remain the backup to QB Brock Purdy in 2026.
Jones expressed enthusiasm about spending another year in San Francisco, despite circulating rumors suggesting he might fit better as a starter for another team, such as the Vikings.
After signing a two-year contract prior to the 2025 season, he has openly mentioned his intent to absorb as much knowledge as possible under coach Kyle Shanahan. He stated that if he returns for another season behind Purdy, he would be excited to continue his growth.
“I started half the games and we did well,” Jones said, as shared by Ian Rapoport. “I signed a two-year deal in San Francisco, so my whole goal was to get back on track and work with Kyle. I’m just focused on learning and ‘getting my PhD in football’ is what I’ve been saying. If I have to do that again next year, I’ll be really excited. I feel this is a good fit for me.”
Jones aims to remain present, but it’s hard not to notice the change in narrative surrounding him. After experiencing turmoil with three teams in five years, being regarded positively feels like a refreshing twist.
“I just try to always be where my feet are. What I’ve learned is that being in the right situation is crucial. Being in the right offense with playmakers around you is important. Any quarterback facing free agency or potential trades needs to prioritize fit and sense. I want that in San Francisco. We’ll see what unfolds. It’s nice to be discussed, but ultimately, I just want to continue playing well.”
San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan previously indicated he wouldn’t be surprised if Jones remains part of the team in 2026.
Jones, now 27, began his career at Alabama in 2020, leading one of the most effective offenses in the program’s history. As a redshirt junior, he earned consensus All-American honors and won the Davey O’Brien Award before declaring for the NFL Draft. The Patriots selected him at No. 15 overall in 2021.
He signed a four-year, $15,586,353 contract with the Patriots, which included an $8,695,530 signing bonus. He was entering the fourth year of his deal when the Patriots traded him to the Jaguars for a sixth-round pick.
The Jaguars declined Jones’ fifth-year option before the 2024 offseason, leading him to sign a two-year deal with the 49ers in March.
In the 2025 season, Jones played in 11 games and started eight, completing 69.6 percent of his pass attempts for 2,151 yards, along with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on Jones as news develops.
