The San Francisco 49ers have seen a season-long battle with injuries, but continue to defy expectations. Sitting at 6-3 before their important game against the Los Angeles Rams, the team has demonstrated its ability to adapt well.
Key among the challenges has been the quarterback position, as starter Brock Purdy has been out due to a toe injury, with Mac Jones taking the field instead of him. With Purdy nearing a return to health, NFL legend Tom Brady has weighed in, making a surprising recommendation.
Tom Brady’s Surprising Take on the 49ers Quarterback Quandary
During a FOX NFL interview on Sunday, when asked whether the San Francisco 49ers should stay with Mac Jones even if Brock Purdy returns.
“Yeah, listen, you got to go with the hot hand,” said Brady. “Yes, yes, you stay with them. I gotta believe that’s why I’m still sitting here today, because they went with the hot hand about 25 years ago. What do you guys expect me to say?”
The former New England Patriots seemingly favors the momentum Jones has brought to the Niners.
Is there a QB1 battle in San Francisco?
Who is @TomBrady rooting for in Pats vs Bucs?We’re checking in with the GOAT ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/oWJckUiqxJ
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 9, 2025
Purdy’s injury has complicated the quarterback situation for San Francisco. The starter has only appeared in two games this season and has been out since Week 5 due to turf toe. He remains listed as questionable for Sunday’s game and is not expected to start, with Jones being the QB1 again. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the team evaluated Purdy for a backup role, although he was not activated, and hopes to have him fully available next week against the Arizona Cardinals.
Jones has seized the opportunity admirably. The former first-round pick of the New England Patriots in 2021 has thrown for 1,832 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions in seven games, completing 67.2% of his passes. According to PFSN’s QB Impact rating, Jones holds a score of 78.6, which comes with a C+ Grade. This places him 14th among all NFL quarterbacks this season.
Because of his production, San Francisco has managed to stay in contention for the NFC West. The team, though, is still facing hurdles, with a roster riddled with injuries, including the absence of second-year wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. However, there is hope that returning players like defensive end Bryce Huff will help their performance.
Meanwhile, Purdy recorded 586 yards on a 65.8% completion rate in his two games with four touchdowns. His best game came in Week 1, for which he scored 81.3 by PFSN’s metric system.