BREAKING NEWS: Brock Purdy Visits Iowa State Amid Injury Concerns; 49ers Turn to Mac Jones for Week 2 Clash vs. Saints
September 11, 2025 – Santa Clara, CA / Ames, IA
In a surprising turn of events, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy made an official visit to Iowa State football this week—his alma mater—even as questions swirl around his availability for Sunday’s key matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
Purdy, who has become the face of the 49ers since his Cinderella rise in 2022, is reportedly dealing with an undisclosed upper-body injury sustained during Week 1’s narrow win over the Cardinals. On Wednesday, head coach Kyle Shanahan delivered a sobering update to the media:
> “Brock’s a long shot to play this weekend,” Shanahan admitted. “We’re monitoring him daily, but right now it’s trending toward Mac [Jones] starting.”
PURDY RETURNS TO IOWA STATE—BUT WHY NOW?
While 49ers fans anxiously await clarity on Purdy’s status, his timing of visiting Iowa State raised eyebrows. The quarterback was seen at the Cyclones’ practice facility on Tuesday and reportedly spent time with head coach Matt Campbell, current players, and university staff.
Iowa State officials confirmed the visit was pre-planned and not connected to his injury, stating:
> “Brock has remained deeply connected to our program and was scheduled to stop by during his off day. We’re proud of his continued support and mentorship of our players.”
Still, some are questioning the optics of the visit, with Purdy potentially sidelined during a critical early-season stretch for the Niners.
MAC JONES TO START?
With Purdy likely unavailable, all signs point to former Patriots quarterback Mac Jones stepping in as the Week 2 starter. Jones, signed by the 49ers this past offseason to a two-year, $9 million deal, impressed during preseason action and has reportedly picked up Kyle Shanahan’s offense quickly.
> “Mac has prepared like a starter since Day 1,” Shanahan noted. “He’s got experience, he’s got poise, and we’re confident in his ability to lead this team if called upon.”
Jones, 27, is attempting to revive his career after an up-and-down stint in New England that ended with his release in March. His fit in the 49ers’ system—built on rhythm throws, quick decisions, and structured play-action—could offer him the ideal environment for a second act.
49ERS’ EARLY SEASON PRESSURE MOUNTS
With the Saints coming off a dominant Week 1 win, the 49ers may need to lean more heavily on their defense and run game if Purdy is indeed out.
Adding to the uncertainty: All-Pro tackle Trent Williams was listed as limited in practice with a back issue, and star wideout Deebo Samuel is nursing a hamstring strain.
Still, San Francisco remains confident in its depth and leadership.
> “We’ve dealt with adversity before,” said All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner. “Next man up is more than a slogan around here—it’s how we win.”
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Purdy’s Game Status: The final injury report on Friday will be critical. If he’s ruled out, expect a full game plan designed around Mac Jones’ strengths.
Mac Jones’ Debut: All eyes will be on how the former first-round pick handles the pressure in a high-stakes environment.
Fan Reaction: Some fans have expressed concern about Purdy’s Iowa State visit amid his injury. Will this blow over, or spark more media scrutiny?
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The 49ers (1–0) host the Saints (1–0) at Levi’s Stadium this Sunday in what could be a defining game early in the NFC playoff race.