Mac Jones joins 49ers on two-year deal, offering leverage in QB decision.

After years of speculation, quarterback Mac Jones has finally signed with the San Francisco 49ers. The former New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars QB agreed to a two-year deal worth $7 million, with $5 million guaranteed, and the potential to earn up to $11.5 million. This move comes four years after the 49ers had considered selecting Jones with the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, before ultimately choosing Trey Lance. As a result, Jones fell to the 15th overall pick, where he was taken by the Patriots.

Jones’ rookie year with New England was impressive, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. However, his career in New England quickly faltered due to a significant misstep by head coach Bill Belichick, who appointed a defensive-minded coach to oversee the offense. This decision caused tension between Belichick and Jones, with the quarterback being one of the few Patriots players willing to challenge Belichick’s decisions, leading to an eventual rift between the two.

Jones’ arrival in San Francisco comes at a pivotal time for the 49ers, who are in the midst of contract negotiations with Brock Purdy, the final pick of the 2023 draft. While Purdy has shown promise, his contract expires after the 2025 season, leaving the 49ers with a decision to make. With Jones signed through 2026, he provides the team with valuable leverage should they wish to negotiate with Purdy on a longer-term deal. This puts the 49ers in a favorable position, knowing that they have options at quarterback.

The question now revolves around whether Purdy deserves an extension and, if so, how much he should be paid. The 49ers could opt to let Purdy play out the 2025 season for $5.2 million and use the franchise tag in 2026 if needed, knowing that Jones is under contract and available as a potential starting option. As the 49ers work through this decision, the key factor will be determining whether Purdy’s success is more about his individual talent or the team’s system. These are the critical questions that will influence the team’s approach to Purdy’s future with the 49ers.