This week’s San Francisco 49ers storyline is all about the potential return of quarterback Brock Purdy, who has been nursing a nagging turf toe injury since September 28. The team is gearing up for a road game against the New York Giants, and the uncertainty surrounding the QB position is palpable. Purdy’s limited practice participation on Wednesday immediately sparked speculation about a Week 9 comeback.

But this means Mac Jones might have to give up the QB1 position and return to being a backup. As per General Manager John Lynch’s statement on Mac Jones‘ future, which has been highlighted on X by Coach Yac, who covers news for the 49ers:

“Brock continues to progress. A lot of it at this point is going to be about trusting Brock and where he’s at. He continues to feel better and ramp up what he’s doing out on the field. We’ll see by the end of this week and make a good decision.”

The fact is, both General Manager John Lynch and Head Coach Kyle Shanahan are deferring the final Week 9 decision to Purdy himself. Why the caution? Because this is a repeat scenario. Just last week, Purdy was in limited practice… Only to be ultimately ruled out because the nagging toe injury simply wasn’t right.

The bottom line for Mac Jones is simple: he only gets to keep the QB1 spot if Purdy has another setback this week. If Purdy gives the medical staff the green light, Jones will be back on the bench for the Giants game. When you look at the gameplay, the difference Purdy makes is stark. He’s the more aggressive passer and, critically, his athleticism helps mask the occasional struggles of the offensive line, something an injured toe obviously hinders.

When reporters pressed Shanahan for a firm date on Purdy’s return, the coach offered a very human and non-committal response:

 “I didn’t give him a deadline.”

This confirms that there is no confirmed timeline. Meanwhile, Mac Jones has been doing exactly what a high-end backup is supposed to do. Manage the game, keep the offense on schedule, and avoid disaster. He’s been an admirable placeholder, starting six games in Purdy’s absence and guiding the team to a solid 4-2 record.

However, his recent performance has been less inspiring. Particularly over the last three games, where he’s averaged 230.7 yards, tallied two touchdowns against four interceptions, and posted a modest 75.6 passer rating. 

Moving into week 9 with Mac Jones is a safer option for the 49ers

Good news for the 49ers faithful. Mac Jones seems fine! Even after taking a minor knee contusion in the Week 8 game, he was back in full swing at Wednesday’s practice. All signs point to him being the man under center for Week 9, especially if Brock Purdy can’t go.

The offense has actually started to find its groove with Jones, relying more on quick, short passes and just feeding the running back to make up for Purdy’s arm talent. Still, Coach Shanahan knows the real potential of this team is only unlocked when Purdy is healthy.

This whole situation is a massive headache for San Francisco. They desperately need a win over the Giants to stay hot in the NFC West. But they can’t afford to be hasty with Purdy. That turf toe is a huge problem. It’s unpredictable and can wreck a quarterback’s ability to plant and push off for a throw.

To make matters worse, Purdy has been on the sidelines for most of the season. Asking the original QB to come back with basically zero practice and instantly deliver a crucial win is a tall order. The pressure is absolutely on Jones to keep the ship steady!