Santa Clara, CA — The San Francisco 49ers are 8–4 and firmly in the NFC playoff race, but beneath the surface of their resilience lies a growing quarterback dilemma that has quietly become one of the most fascinating storylines of the 2025 season. With Brock Purdy battling injuries and inconsistency while Mac Jones thrives in Kyle Shanahan’s system, the 49ers are now reportedly weighing a bold offseason move that could reshape the franchise for years to come.

On paper, Purdy remains the symbol of the 49ers’ improbable rise in recent years — a former last pick turned franchise centerpiece. But this season has been anything but stable. Purdy has started only four of San Francisco’s first 12 games, posting a 3–1 record with 8 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, and flashes of both brilliance and uncertainty. His turnover issues have become a recurring concern, and injuries have further complicated the picture.

Meanwhile, Mac Jones — brought in on a low-cost two-year, $7 million deal — has delivered everything Shanahan hoped for and more. Thriving in a system that rewards timing, discipline, and decision-making, Jones has gone 5–3 as the starter with 13 touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 97.4 passer rating. His calm command of the offense has caught the attention of both fans and the front office, but what truly ignites the debate is the financial contrast.

Purdy is owed $53 million per year.
Jones makes $3.5 million.

And that massive $50 million-per-year gap is the centerpiece of what insiders describe as “a growing, internal conversation” about San Francisco’s future at quarterback.

The speculation reached a new level this week when a high-ranking team source described the situation as “uncomfortable but necessary,” hinting that the 49ers may need to evaluate what offers could look like for Purdy if Jones continues to outplay expectations.

In the midst of swirling rumors and internal evaluation, one player in the locker room summed up the tension with striking honesty:
“We all love Brock, but the NFL is a business. When two guys play the same role and one costs fifty million more, conversations are gonna happen. That’s just reality.”

BREAKING: 49ers Weigh Bold Offseason Move on Brock Purdy After Mac Jones’ Rise and Stunning Contract Gap pic.twitter.com/GW8G4pDvml

— Adam Schefler (@ScheflerAdamUs) November 30, 2025

That quote — stark and unfiltered — reflects the exact crossroads the 49ers now approach. If the front office believes Jones can execute Shanahan’s system at a high level while offering budget flexibility, the ripple effects could be massive. Offloading Purdy’s contract would free tens of millions in cap space, unlocking resources to reinforce the offensive line, re-sign defensive stars, or add premium playmakers around Jones.

But trading a young quarterback who has already led San Francisco to postseason wins would not be without consequence. Purdy’s leadership, locker room respect, and connection with players like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk are not easily replaced. The potential fan backlash would be significant — and Shanahan has always preferred stability at the most important position.

Still, the league is watching. Quarterback-needy teams like the Steelers, Jets, and Panthers are expected to pursue top-tier options aggressively this offseason. If the 49ers signal even a hint of availability, Purdy could become the most coveted trade target on the market. Multiple first-round picks, veteran starters, or premium defensive help could all be part of the conversation.

For now, Shanahan is playing it close to the vest. He praised both quarterbacks this week but avoided any forward-looking statements. “We’ll make decisions when the time comes,” he said. “Right now, the only thing that matters is winning games.”

Inside the building, no such simplicity exists. Several team executives are already modeling potential roster constructions built around a low-cost quarterback. Others believe trading Purdy would be a mistake the franchise regrets for a decade.

As the 49ers prepare for a playoff push, the tension around the quarterback room has become a subplot as compelling as any on the field. Fans are split — some believe Purdy remains the future, others argue Jones gives the team a more complete, sustainable path forward.

One thing, however, is certain:

This offseason could produce one of the most daring moves in 49ers history.

If the reports hold true, the conversation in San Francisco is no longer Purdy or Jones for Week 17…
It’s Purdy or Jones for the next five years.