Quarterback Daniel Jones will clear waivers on Monday, making him free to sign with any team. According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport and FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz, the San Francisco 49ers could emerge as a potential suitor for the former first-round draft pick.
Initially, the idea of Jones landing in the Bay Area seemed far-fetched. That changed after Brock Purdy was ruled out for Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, and head coach Kyle Shanahan described Purdy's status for next week's matchup against the Buffalo Bills as "up in the air." It has led NFL insiders to believe San Francisco could be in play for the veteran quarterback.
Purdy is dealing with a shoulder injury that severely limited his practice participation this past week. While the injury isn't believed to be a long-term issue, there was also early optimism within the organization about his availability for this weekend's game at Lambeau Field, which faded on Friday.
"Head coach Kyle Shanahan left open the possibility that Purdy could miss more than Sunday, with Purdy to be re-evaluated on Monday," Rapoport wrote. "If Purdy is deemed in danger of missing more time, San Francisco would make a lot of sense and could be very real."
ESPN's Adam Schefter added that the 49ers remain hopeful Purdy will return for the game against the Bills but acknowledged lingering uncertainty.
"Then again, they also thought he would be able to start today at Green Bay before he couldn't," Schefter noted. "Still, for the time being, there does not seem to be a high level of concern."
Schultz added, "Once he clears waivers, expect the Ravens, Vikings, Lions, 49ers, and Dolphins to pursue him — not only for a chance to join a contending team, but also to develop in an offensive system where he can learn and grow."
Jones has thrown for 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions through 10 games this season, owning a 2-8 record. Over six NFL seasons, the former No. 6 overall pick has started 69 games since being drafted by the New York Giants in 2019.