Mac Jones Set to Start Again as 49ers Manage Brock Purdy’s Injury Recovery

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers will once again hand the reins to quarterback Mac Jones this weekend, as Brock Purdy continues to recover from a nagging toe injury that has lingered since early in the season. Purdy, who first hurt his right big toe in Week 1 and aggravated it in Week 4, remains listed as questionable for Sunday’s divisional clash against the Los Angeles Rams.

Despite making progress in practice, Purdy has not yet reached the level of readiness the coaching staff wants before re-inserting him into the starting lineup. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Friday that Jones will start for the second straight week, with Purdy’s game-day status still undecided. “We haven’t decided whether to make [Purdy] active or not,” Shanahan said. “He’s further along this week than last week.”

Last week against the New York Giants, Purdy was considered a possible backup option but was ultimately inactive. Shanahan later revealed the quarterback was “not all that close” to returning at that point. This week marked improvement — Purdy took more first-team reps in practice, but his workload remained limited as the medical staff monitored his response to increased activity.

If Purdy cannot suit up, it will mark his eighth missed game of the season. In his absence, Jones has stepped in effectively, guiding the 49ers to a 5–2 record and ranking fourth in the league in passing yards per game (261.7). He has thrown for 10 touchdowns against five interceptions and posted a QBR of 61.2.

1. Jones’ Grit Earning Respect in the Locker Room

Jones’ steady play and toughness have become central to San Francisco’s offensive stability during Purdy’s recovery. The 26-year-old has battled through his own injuries — including issues in both knees earlier this season — yet continued to deliver solid performances, earning the respect of his coaches and teammates alike. “That’s a big reason why I play, to be honest — to get the respect of people I trust,” Jones said Friday. “I try to show that every day. It’s not about one game. I want to show it for the whole season.” Shanahan praised Jones’ professionalism and resilience, noting how his consistency has helped keep the offense on track through an injury-plagued stretch. The coach emphasized that Jones’ composure and decision-making have been critical, especially as the 49ers navigate key absences at multiple positions. One of those absences is rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who remains sidelined with a right knee injury that has kept him out since Week 4. Pearsall did not participate in practice all week, and Shanahan confirmed the team is waiting for him to reach key recovery benchmarks. “He hasn’t been able to hit his normal speeds that’ll allow him to come back,” Shanahan said. “We’re just waiting until he hits those markers.”

2. Defensive Line Depth Tested Amid New Injuries

While the quarterback situation draws headlines, the 49ers’ defense has quietly been decimated by injuries along the line — an issue that worsened this week. During Thursday’s practice, defensive tackles Alfred Collins (hip) and Kalia Davis (ankle), along with defensive end Keion White (groin), all suffered setbacks. The string of injuries forced the team to shorten practice sessions to preserve remaining healthy players. Collins missed Friday’s practice entirely, while Davis and White were limited participants. All three are listed as questionable for Sunday’s game, with Shanahan admitting that Collins is “a step behind” in his recovery. These injuries come on top of major season-ending losses to defensive ends Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams, both of whom tore ACLs earlier this year. The team also placed Yetur Gross-Matos on injured reserve last week due to a hamstring injury. “It was definitely unfortunate,” Shanahan said. “Glad that all those guys still have a chance to play on Sunday, but it’s never a good feeling when three leave like that.” The attrition has stretched San Francisco’s depth thin, forcing backups and rotational players to assume greater roles as the team tries to maintain defensive consistency. Despite the setbacks, the 49ers received some positive updates on Friday. Defensive end Bryce Huff and center Jake Brendel, both of whom missed time with hamstring issues, were cleared to play against the Rams. Additionally, guard Ben Bartch was activated from injured reserve after recovering from an ankle injury and will be available for the first time since early October.

3. 49ers Eye Stability Amid Injuries and Division Pressure

The upcoming clash with the Rams represents more than just a divisional rivalry — it’s a pivotal test of the 49ers’ depth and adaptability. With Purdy’s availability uncertain and the defensive line depleted, San Francisco will once again rely on Jones’ leadership and the resilience of a reshuffled roster. For Jones, the moment offers another chance to solidify his standing in Shanahan’s system and among his teammates. His command of the offense, particularly in high-pressure situations, has given the team confidence during a turbulent stretch marked by constant lineup changes. Meanwhile, the 49ers’ defense — long a cornerstone of the franchise’s identity — will need to dig deep to contain a Rams offense known for tempo and creativity. With several key contributors sidelined, backups will be tested in ways that could shape the rest of San Francisco’s season. Still, Shanahan remained optimistic, emphasizing the team’s collective mindset. “We’ve had our share of challenges, but this group competes every week,” he said. “We’ll keep pushing through it.”