The San Francisco 49ers will face significant roster decisions once Brock Purdy returns to full health from his turf toe injury.
Mac Jones has stepped in as the starter and delivered strong results through seven games, guiding the team to a 6-3 record despite dealing with multiple injuries across the roster.
His performance has raised questions about the quarterback situation moving forward.
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky addressed the developing “controversy” during a recent appearance on Get Up.
He acknowledged Purdy’s abilities but pointed to Jones’ consistent play as a factor that could create complications once the original starter is cleared to return.
“There is a brewing quarterback controversy, competition, whatever you want in San Francisco. Brock Purdy is a really good player. Mac Jones has been absolutely sensational in his time. Doing it with people that have been beat up. Stars and perimeter players that haven’t been healthy. He’s been knocked around. Yet this team is somehow, even with all those injuries, is still in the playoff race and it’s because of the quarterback play,” Orlovsky said on ESPN’s Get Up.
Dan Orlovsky on the 49ers quarterback situation:
“There is a brewing quarterback controversy, competition, whatever you want in San Francisco. Brock Purdy is a really good player. Mac Jones has been absolutely sensational in his time. Doing it with people that have been beat up.… pic.twitter.com/g9EYym1F6L
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) November 6, 2025
Jones has absorbed pressure and maintained composure throughout his stretch as a starter.
His ability to manage games without key offensive weapons has resonated with teammates and gained support from portions of the fan base.
That production has made the upcoming transition more notable than it might have been otherwise.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has addressed the speculation directly.
He made clear that Purdy will reclaim the starting role once he is healthy and capable of performing at his expected level.
Shanahan emphasized that this remains Purdy’s team without debate or competition.
Purdy’s five-year contract extension, worth $265 million, signed during the offseason, reinforces the organization’s commitment to him as the long-term answer.
Despite Jones’ strong showing, San Francisco’s plans at quarterback have not changed.
The focus now shifts to Purdy’s recovery timeline and his readiness to step back into the starting role.
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