SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Quarterback Mac Jones is officially joining the San Francisco 49ers after agreeing to terms on a two-year contract worth $7 million, with $5 million guaranteed. This news, which was first reported by NFL Network, marks the culmination of years of speculation dating back to the 2021 NFL Draft when the 49ers almost selected him with the third overall pick.
The agreement was confirmed late Wednesday, just one day after Jones became a free agent when he was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to sources, the pact can reach as high as $11.5 million, depending on performance incentives.
Jones, 26, initially made waves during his rookie season with the New England Patriots, leading the team to the playoffs with notable performances, including throwing for 3,801 yards and 22 touchdowns. His rapid ascent, including being named to the Pro Bowl as an alternate, raised expectations for his career. Unfortunately, his development stagnated following the departure of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, leading to struggles under less experienced playcallers.
After being traded to the Jaguars last year, he started seven games, achieving mixed results with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions, as Jacksonville went 2-5 during his tenure as the starter. These performances fell below expectations, prompting the Jaguars to send him packing after just one season.
Jones's career statistics show he has made 49 starts, achieving 54 touchdowns and 44 interceptions, along with a passer rating of 84.9. These figures reflect both the promise and the struggles he has experienced throughout his time as a starting quarterback.
For the 49ers, the signing of Jones fills the immediate need for a reliable backup to incumbent starter Brock Purdy. With the previous backup, Joshua Dobbs, leaving for New England and Brandon Allen uncertain for the next season, securing Jones provides the organization with depth and potential competition.
Coach Kyle Shanahan's previous admiration for Jones significantly influenced the decision to bring him aboard. During the 2021 NFL Draft, Shanahan had noted how he was torn between selecting Jones and Trey Lance, opting for the latter after trading multiple first-round picks to secure the third overall spot.
Since then, the franchise has faced challenges with quarterback efficacy. Lance ended up starting just four games across two seasons before being traded to Dallas, leaving Purdy to seize the spotlight after outperforming expectations as the last pick of the 2022 draft.
Purdy, who led the team to consecutive wins and strong playoff showings, is slated to negotiate his own contract extension. With Jones now under contract, the 49ers have added leverage as they navigate extension talks for Purdy. The choice to integrate Jones also sets up an intriguing quarterback competition, offering the organization options should Purdy's performance falter or should negotiations become contentious.
"I have prepared my whole life for this opportunity, and I look forward to playing with such talented teammates and under the watchful eye of Coach Shanahan," Jones declared after the announcement of his deal. His commitment to maximizing his skill set within the 49ers' offense resonates well with his new coaches, who recognize his quick processing ability and accuracy as key strengths necessary for success.
The addition of Jones could prove to be strategic, allowing the 49ers to retain stability at the position, as historical trends have shown the importance of depth at quarterback. With Purdy's health proving somewhat erratic throughout last season, including dealing with injuries like concussions and shoulder issues, having Jones by his side could prove invaluable.
Jones’s arrival also highlights the 49ers' aspiration to maintain competitiveness during the upcoming season, ensuring they are well-prepared should their starting quarterback struggle or become injury-prone.
Overall, adding Mac Jones adds depth and providing yet another layer to the 49ers' quarterback situation. The franchise appears optimistic about what he might bring to the table as they prepare for the next season, hoping for improved outcomes after the ups and downs of his past few years. With training camp approaching, fans are eagerly anticipating how this new dynamic will evolve.