Santa Clara, Calif. — Mac Jones working hard has become the mantra echoing through the San Francisco 49ers training facility this week.
The former first‑rounder, now Brock Purdy’s understudy, told reporters Wednesday that he’s “all‑in on competing, learning, and helping the team win” after signing a two‑year, $8.4 million deal in June.
“I’m here to earn every rep,” Jones said, per NBC Sports Bay Area. “Whether that’s scout‑team snaps or game action, you’ll see Mac Jones working hard every single day.”
Why the 49ers Wanted Jones
Head coach Kyle Shanahan praised Jones’ quick processing and accuracy. “He’s a smart player who fits what we do,” Shanahan told ESPN.
The signing adds playoff‑tested insurance behind Brock Purdy, who led San Francisco to the NFC title game last season.
Key Numbers (career):
- 64.3 % completion rate
- 8,653 passing yards
- 46 TDs, 36 INTs
- 18–24 starting record
Off‑Season Workouts Showcase a New Mindset
During voluntary OTAs, teammates repeatedly described Mac Jones working hard at every drill:
- Arriving at 5 a.m. for an extra film with quarterbacks coach Brian Griese.
- Throwing after practice with second‑year receivers Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing.
- Studying Purdy’s 2024 tape to master Shanahan’s boot‑action concepts.
Linebacker Fred Warner noticed the difference:
“He’s the first guy in, last one out. You can literally see Mac Jones working hard to reinvent himself.”
What Jones Learned from New England & Jacksonville
Jones acknowledged that inconsistency and turnovers defined his Patriots tenure. A one‑year stint as a spot starter in Jacksonville restored confidence but also highlighted flaws.
Lessons he highlighted:
- Footwork discipline in the red zone
- Timing throws against Cover 2 looks
- “Pushing the ball without forcing it” — advice from ex‑Jags OC Press Taylor
That humility, teammates say, keeps Mac Jones working hard in every classroom session.
Depth Chart Implications
| QB | 2024 Starts | Contract Status |
|---|---|---|
| Brock Purdy | 17 | 2 yrs, $9.1 M |
| Mac Jones | 5 | 2 yrs, $8.4 M |
| Brandon Allen | 0 | 1 yr, vet min |
Should Purdy miss time, Shanahan believes Jones can “run the full playbook.” That possibility keeps Mac Jones working hard with the first‑team offense during light walk‑throughs.
Expert Insight
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky argued that Jones’ quick release is tailor‑made for Shanahan’s YAC‑heavy scheme:
“In that offense, decisiveness matters more than arm strength. That’s why you see Mac Jones working hard on pre‑snap reads.”
NFL Network’s Steve Smith Sr. added, “He’s got a chip on his shoulder. The league might be sleeping on him.”
External Perspective
A recent Reuters feature noted that backup quarterbacks averaged 5.2 starts across the league last season due to injuries and load management. That stat is fueling Mac Jones working hard to be ready at a moment’s notice.
Final Thoughts
With a fresh system, a Super Bowl‑ready roster, and a coach renowned for quarterback development, the stakes have never been higher—and Mac Jones working hard may be the 49ers’ best insurance policy.
If his offseason dedication translates to the field, San Francisco could boast one of the NFL’s strongest QB rooms.
What’s your take—can Jones bounce back as the league’s top backup? Comment your thoughts below.
Mac Jones: I'm working hard to be ready to play when they need me https://t.co/Z06Xih7jMa there working as hard as they can not to need you Mac lol
— vic Larnell (@vlarnell45) July 4, 2025
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