New York, 3/11/2025 – One of the most shared moments after the San Francisco 49ers defeated the New York Giants 34-24 was not a touchdown or a high-level defensive play, but the deeply humane second between two rivals – Giants linebacker Brian Burns and 49ers quarterback Mac Jones.
Late in the second half, with 2:45 on the clock, Jones was sacked by Rakeem Nunez-Roches. As he fell, Burns (#0) rushed in to assist and accidentally kicked his cleat into Jones’ face, causing blood to pour. No penalty was called, as the situation was determined to be incidental contact. However, the image of Jones continuing to play with a bloodied face spread rapidly, attracting millions of views on X with the hashtag #MacTough.
Right after the game, Burns proactively sought out Jones in the MetLife Stadium tunnel. CBS media captured the moving moment when Burns placed his hand on his opponent’s shoulder and said: “I’m truly sorry. That play was completely an accident, I never meant to hurt him. I always respect him — the way he got up, kept fighting even with blood like that really makes me admire him. He’s a true warrior. Sincerely sorry and truly thank him for reacting with class.”
Mac Jones responded with a light smile, wiped the blood from his nose, and hugged Burns: “It’s okay, Brian. I know you didn’t mean it. This is football – anyone can have a situation like that. We’re good, really.”
The moment the two hugged was replayed on CBS, causing the NFL community to erupt. 49ers and Giants fans alike praised both for their sportsmanship and the respect they showed each other.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan later shared: “This is what makes us love this sport – not just competition, but respect for people.”
In a night full of blood, sweat, and challenges, Mac Jones and Brian Burns together created a beautiful image – where compassion rises above the steel discipline of the NFL.
