The San Francisco 49ers' 2025 football season culminated with a 12-5 standing, earning them a playoff spot. However, their championship aspirations were cut short in the divisional round. This comprehensive analysis delves into the performance of the team's quarterbacks, assessing their individual contributions and outlining their potential roles for the upcoming season, as the team shifts its focus from reflecting on the past to strategizing for future success.
Quarterback Performance Highlights: Purdy and Jones Lead the Charge
Brock Purdy, despite a toe injury that limited his play, led the 49ers to a strong 7-2 record in his nine starts. His performance included completing 69.4% of his passes, accumulating 2,167 yards, and throwing 20 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. While not his most dominant season, Purdy's leadership was instrumental in the team's overall success, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and guide the offense effectively. His resilience and impact on the team's winning record underscore his value as a starting quarterback.
Mac Jones, joining the 49ers after a challenging period with previous teams, proved to be a significant asset. In his eight starts, he guided the team to a 5-3 record, completing 69.6% of his passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. Jones's revitalized performance established him as one of the league's top backup quarterbacks, potentially opening doors for a starting role elsewhere, either through a trade in 2026 or as a free agent in 2027. His contributions were vital, especially when stepping in due to Purdy's injury, showcasing his capability to lead and deliver under pressure.
Emerging Talent and Future Prospects: Martinez and Rourke's Journeys
Adrian Martinez's journey with the 49ers in 2025 was marked by a brief but notable appearance. Initially part of the practice squad, Martinez was elevated to the active roster in October following injuries to both Jones and Purdy. He recorded his first NFL snap with a kneeldown against the New York Giants. Despite being waived later and moving between practice squads, Martinez has secured a reserves/futures deal for the offseason, indicating he will compete for a practice squad position in 2026. His perseverance reflects the competitive nature of professional football and the constant fight for a roster spot.
Kurtis Rourke, a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, spent his rookie season recovering from a torn ACL sustained at Indiana. Although he began practicing towards the end of the year, he was not needed for game action. Looking ahead to 2026, Rourke is expected to contend with Martinez for a spot in the quarterback room. His recovery and potential symbolize the team's long-term planning and investment in developing talent for future seasons. Both Martinez and Rourke's situations highlight the depth and strategic considerations involved in building a robust quarterback lineup.