Could Zach Wilson Be Kyle Shanahan’s Next Quarterback Project?
Kyle Shanahan has quietly built a reputation as something of a quarterback whisperer in San Francisco. Whether it’s reviving careers or maximizing untapped potential, the 49ers head coach has shown a knack for getting the most out of quarterbacks who’ve struggled elsewhere. He’s already helped steady the careers of Sam Darnold and Mac Jones - two former first-rounders who looked like they were headed for permanent backup duty before landing in Shanahan’s system.
Now, there’s a growing sense that Zach Wilson could be next in line.
With Mac Jones potentially on the move this offseason - a real possibility after he impressed while filling in for an injured Brock Purdy - the 49ers may be in the market for a new backup. And Wilson, the former No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, is a name that keeps surfacing in league circles.
A Rocky Start in New York
Wilson’s NFL journey has been anything but smooth. Drafted by the Jets out of BYU with sky-high expectations, he struggled to find his footing in New York.
Over three seasons, he completed just 57% of his passes, throwing for 6,293 yards with 23 touchdowns and 25 interceptions. His record as a starter?
6-11. The flashes of talent were there, but consistency - and confidence - never seemed to follow.
By the end of the 2023 season, the Jets had seen enough. They began exploring trade options, and Wilson’s name was briefly linked to San Francisco before he was ultimately dealt to the Denver Broncos.
A Year in the Background
Wilson landed in Denver in 2024, backing up rookie Bo Nix. He didn’t see the field during the regular season, and the Broncos declined his fifth-year option, making him a free agent. That opened the door for a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, where he was brought in as insurance behind Tua Tagovailoa.
His playing time in Miami has been minimal - just three appearances, completing six of nine passes for 32 yards. But the bigger story in Miami is the emergence of rookie Quinn Ewers, who recently took over as the starter. The Dolphins appear to be leaning toward Ewers as their long-term answer, which likely puts Wilson back on the open market this offseason.
A Familiar System, A Fresh Start?
Here’s where things get interesting. Wilson spent the 2025 season under Mike McDaniel in Miami - a coach who runs an offensive system rooted in the same principles as Shanahan’s. That experience could make for a smoother transition if San Francisco decides to bring him in.
And let’s be clear: the 49ers aren’t looking to replace Brock Purdy. He’s their guy.
But given Purdy’s injury history, having a capable backup is more than just a luxury - it’s a necessity. Mac Jones proved that this season.
If he’s dealt, the Niners will need someone who can step in and keep the offense humming if called upon.
Wilson, despite his early struggles, still has the physical tools that made him the No. 2 pick. The arm talent is there.
The mobility is there. What’s been missing is the right environment - one with stability, structure, and a coach who knows how to play to his strengths.
Shanahan has built that kind of environment in San Francisco. And if there’s a place where Wilson can hit the reset button on his career, this might be it.
The 49ers don’t need him to be a star. They just need someone who can step in, learn the system, and keep the offense on schedule if Purdy misses time. If Wilson can do that - and maybe even show some of the upside that once made him a top draft pick - it could be the start of a second act that few saw coming.
In a league where quarterback depth matters more than ever, don’t be surprised if Shanahan takes a close look at Zach Wilson this offseason.