Mac Jones Finds His Footing in San Francisco, Reignites NFL Comeback Story
In a league that’s seen its fair share of quarterback redemption arcs, Mac Jones is quietly putting together one of the more compelling ones. After a rocky stretch that saw his once-promising career teeter on the edge, the former first-round pick has found new life-and maybe even a second chance-under Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco.
Things started off hot for Jones in New England, where he showed poise and promise as a rookie. But the wheels came off quickly after that.
A turbulent sophomore campaign, followed by a forgettable stint in Jacksonville, left more questions than answers about his long-term viability as a starter. Then came the move to the 49ers-a team known for getting the most out of quarterbacks who might’ve been written off elsewhere.
When Brock Purdy went down with a toe injury that sidelined him for eight games, Jones got the call. And he delivered.
The 49ers went 5-3 with Jones under center, and he threw 13 touchdowns during that stretch. More than just numbers, though, it was the way he operated within Shanahan’s system-efficient, confident, and in control-that turned heads inside the building and across the league.
San Francisco’s front office didn’t waste time making their stance clear: they’re not in a rush to let Jones walk. Despite receiving trade interest, the 49ers have signaled they want to keep him in the fold.
And it’s not hard to see why. In a quarterback-driven league, having a capable backup who can step in and win games is a luxury-especially one who’s still just scratching the surface of his potential.
For Jones, this season wasn’t just about proving he could still play. It was about rediscovering the confidence that made him a first-round pick in the first place.
“Like, I learned so much this year,” Jones said during an interview with The Insiders on NFL Network during Super Bowl week. “I’ve obviously been coached by some great coaches and I know a lot and I’ve learned a lot.
But I really learned a lot this year. I know Sam [Darnold] probably felt the same way, and you can see it on the tape.”
That growth-both mental and mechanical-has been evident. Jones played with a renewed sense of rhythm and swagger, something he acknowledged has been missing in recent years.
“So it’s definitely motivating for me,” he continued. “I feel like I can get back and do that.
And I have my swag back, and I feel like that’s important to me. And I can go out there and win games for whoever.”
That last line says a lot. Jones knows he may not be QB1 in San Francisco next season.
If Purdy is healthy, the job is his. But Jones is playing the long game.
Even if he spends 2026 holding a clipboard, he’s set to hit free agency the following offseason-and given the state of quarterback play around the league, there will be no shortage of suitors.
This isn’t just a comeback. It’s a calculated reset. And if his time in San Francisco is any indication, Mac Jones is far from done making noise in the NFL.