If quarterback Mac Jones had signed a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers this past offseason, he might be poised for a big payday in 2026—especially given his strong performance in 2025.
The 49ers fell 42-26 to the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on Sunday, but Jones was not at fault. Once again filling in admirably for starter Brock Purdy, who is sidelined with a turf toe injury, Jones completed 33 of 39 passes for 319 yards, three touchdowns, one interception, and earned a 115.7 passer rating—his second-highest mark of the season.
Had he been set to enter free agency next year, Jones likely would have had multiple suitors. Luckily for San Francisco, the team secured him on a two-year deal this past March.
In response to what he called a "random question," Jones explained why he chose a multi-year deal over a one-year contract, which, in hindsight, might have been more lucrative in the long term.
"I think, like, it was what was presented to me, and I wanted to get back to having fun playing football, and I think I've done that," Jones said. "Today wasn't as fun, obviously, but I still believe that we have the right guys in this locker room, and I wanted to get around a good organization that believes in the players, that has coaches that believe in the players, and players that believe in the players."
Despite the 49ers' record falling to 6-4, Jones has complete confidence in his teammates and their ability to overcome adversity—something the roster has faced repeatedly this season due to injuries.
"I feel like we have the right guys," Jones said. "I've just been really fortunate to be here this year, and I want to just try and find ways to win games for us. That's all I'm here to do, and the future will take care of itself."
When asked about his future—potentially beyond his time with the 49ers—Jones emphasized his focus on the present.
"I really just try to take it day by day, and I set goals out for myself this year to be ready to play when my number was called, and I've got to continue to do that," Jones said.
The 49ers have certainly been a great landing spot for Jones, who has revived his career under head coach Kyle Shanahan.
"I want to work on things and get better each day," Jones added. "I've never tried to look ahead. It's hard not to, but I never want to do that. I want to focus on each week, and I know how challenging the NFL is, just having played for a couple of years.
"And I feel like we have a young team that needs leadership right now, and my goal is to lead them and get ready for Arizona."