The San Francisco 49ers have one of the best backup quarterbacks in the NFL.
However, while some people might be shocked by that, it’s not a surprise to ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky.
In 2023, the former NFL quarterback predicted that Mac Jones would thrive in Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system, and that clip is making the rounds again.
“If Mac Jones was in San Francisco, he’d be playing like Brock Purdy,” Orlovsky said then.
????????: Dan Orlovsky predicted back in 2023 that if Mac Jones played for the 49ers, he would be just as good as Brock Purdy.
"If Mac Jones was in San Francisco, he'd be playing like Brock Purdy."
This prediction aged like fine wine ?? pic.twitter.com/rOprdf1t6T
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) October 8, 2025
After making the Pro Bowl as a rookie with the New England Patriots, Jones bounced around the league before landing with the 49ers this offseason.
Granted, he played a big part in his struggles and perhaps wasn’t mature enough.
But Bill Belichick’s final years with the Patriots were not an ideal spot for a QB to develop.
Now, Shanahan’s offense simply looks tailor-made for Jones.
Of course, the Niners are committed to Brock Purdy, as they have little choice after signing him to a huge contract extension.
Yet, this could be the beginning of a career turnaround for Jones.
With multiple teams looking for a franchise quarterback, he’s proving that he can play at a high level in the right situation.
This has happened several times recently, and Jones could join the likes of Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold as a successful second-chance QB.
Sometimes, all it takes is just the right system, the right organization, and some patience for a quarterback to finally live up to the hype.
NEXT: Adam Schefter Reveals What He's Hearing About Mac Jones
