San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Wednesday that the team discussed the possibility of signing quarterback Daniel Jones, who became a free agent after being released by the New York Giants last week. However, Shanahan made it clear the talks didn't progress significantly.
"We discussed it. Yep, that's about it," Shanahan said when asked about the team's interest in Jones.
On Wednesday morning, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that the 49ers were considered a "viable contender" for Jones. According to Fowler, the former Giants quarterback was intrigued by the idea of working with Shanahan and his staff. Ultimately, Jones signed with the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad.
"The sense I get is the 49ers made an impression, with Jones intrigued by Kyle Shanahan's track record with quarterbacks," Fowler wrote. "Clearly, Jones is opting for the chance to play for a stable winning franchise, either learning behind the scenes or getting a chance to make an on-field impact."
The 49ers currently have three quarterbacks on their active roster. Brock Purdy, the starter, is recovering from a shoulder injury that kept him out of Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers. Brandon Allen started in Purdy's place and would likely start again Sunday against the Buffalo Bills if Purdy is unavailable. The team's third quarterback is Josh Dobbs.
On the practice squad, the 49ers have Tanner Mordecai, an undrafted rookie and developmental prospect.
Jones, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, is in his sixth season. He has struggled to live up to his high draft status but hopes to revitalize his career with the Vikings.