Kyle Shanahan’s Quarterback Journey Reaches a New Chapter with Mac Jones as 49ers’ Starter
The San Francisco 49ers have long been in search of a franchise quarterback, a quest that became particularly pronounced during the 2021 NFL Draft. Head coach Kyle Shanahan had two players in mind: Trey Lance and Mac Jones. The 49ers ultimately made a bold move, trading up to select Lance with the second overall pick. Meanwhile, Jones unexpectedly slid to the New England Patriots at No. 15.
Fast forward four years, and the tides have turned. Shanahan now has his desired quarterback in Jones, who is set to take the reins this weekend due to Brock Purdy’s multi-week toe injury.
A Missed Opportunity?
As the 2021 draft unfolded, speculation swirled around the 49ers’ intentions. Shanahan confirmed his interest in both Lance and Jones during a podcast appearance in 2022, reflecting on the team’s decision to trade up to the third overall selection. “We did the trade so early that it made me feel good about it,” Shanahan said. “I knew before we did it how I felt about the quarterbacks and how good we would be to take them at 12. There were two that I really wanted… Mac Jones and Trey [Lance]. Those were the two guys that we were locked in on from the beginning.”
Ironically, Jones, who had been highly coveted by Shanahan, ended up in New England, where he spent three seasons. Over that span, he tallied an 18-24 record as a starter. His rookie season showed promise with a 10-7 finish, but subsequent years were lackluster, leading to his transfer to Jacksonville for the 2024 season.
A New Opportunity for Jones
In Jacksonville, Jones found himself backing up Trevor Lawrence, but he still managed to start seven games, finishing with a 2-5 record, eight touchdown passes, and eight interceptions. Now, he finds himself back in the spotlight, this time in San Francisco, where he will be stepping in for Purdy, affectionately dubbed Mr. Irrelevant, after being the last pick in the 2022 draft.
With Purdy sidelined, Jones is poised to fulfill the potential that Shanahan once envisioned for him. The upcoming games will not only test Jones’s mettle but also offer a glimpse into what could have been had the 49ers made a different choice in 2021.
Looking Ahead
As Mac Jones prepares to lead the 49ers, the implications extend beyond just the immediate future of the team’s season. His performance could reshape his career trajectory and influence Shanahan’s quarterback strategy for years to come. All eyes will be on Jones as he steps onto the field, embodying a journey that has come full circle in the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL.
