49ers: Mac Jones Limited by Injury, Optimistic for Game vs. Buccaneers

Niners on Alert: Jones Battles Injuries, Martinez Ready to Step In

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers could face a significant challenge in their next game against Tampa Bay, as the health of their quarterbacks is in question. Although Brock Purdy is doubtful due to a toe injury, Mac Jones is also dealing with physical problems. Mac Jones, who could be the starter for the fourth time if Purdy is unavailable, has been limited in training due to discomfort in his left knee and oblique. Despite expressing optimism about his participation in the game against the Buccaneers, Jones admitted that he is still in the process of recovery.

I am receiving treatment every day and working. I feel confident and I am working day by day. That’s all you can do.

Mac Jones

Jones played through the knee injury in last week’s victory against the Los Angeles Rams, but revealed he suffered the oblique injury at the end of the game. Thanks to the extra days of rest due to the Thursday night game, Jones has focused on treatment and measures to aid his recovery, such as controlling his sleep and diet. During Thursday’s practice, Jones participated in a limited throwing session during individual drills open to the media. Although he made some soft throws during warm-ups, he also threw during the third period of practice, when quarterbacks throw to receivers running routes.

I was trying to save some throws, and there’s a lot of volume out there. At the end of the day, I have to be ready for Sunday.

Mac Jones

Coach Kyle Shanahan reported that Jones did not throw during team periods and focused on handoffs. Shanahan added that Jones “should be fine for Sunday, but definitely wasn’t good enough for today.” With Jones’ reduced workload and Purdy’s absence, Adrian Martinez received snaps with the first-team offense. Martinez has been Jones’ backup in his three starts this season and was activated on October 2. Martinez hasn’t played in a regular season game and has been with the Niners since he signed with the practice squad on August 28. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak stated that if Martinez has to play against the Bucs, he wouldn’t be too limited by his recent arrival.

I think he’s where he needs to be. I’m very impressed with Adrian since he’s been here. He’s a very smart guy. He’s had a few more reps just because Mac is progressing a little bit during the week and Adrian hasn’t missed a beat. He’s been on it. I feel like he can go out there and run our offense.

Klay Kubiak

In last week’s game, there were several moments when it seemed Martinez would have to replace Jones. Considering what Jones is facing this week, Martinez will likely have to be ready again, even if Jones starts. Jones, meanwhile, remains hopeful that a couple more days will make him feel better.

The game isn’t today, is it? I don’t really ask theoretical questions, but I definitely feel like I have a good plan in place. The game is on Sunday and I’ll see how I feel when we get there.

Mac Jones

In other injury news, 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings (ribs, ankle) and defensive tackle Alfred Collins (knee) returned to limited practice after not participating on Wednesday.