The San Francisco 49ers may face an early-season quarterback dilemma after Brock Purdy sustained shoulder and toe injuries in the team’s Week 1 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Although Purdy has not yet been placed on injured reserve, his status for the next several games is uncertain.
Mac Jones, the No. 15 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, is currently slated to start in place of Purdy. While the 49ers are giving Jones the initial nod, head coach Kyle Shanahan is likely to explore outside options as the team considers short-term reinforcements at quarterback.
Which Veteran Signal-Caller Is Linked to Linked After Brock Purdy Injury?
Among the names being linked to the team is Kirk Cousins, the four-time Pro Bowl quarterback currently serving as a backup in Atlanta. Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons last offseason, but has taken a backseat to Michael Penix Jr. With Cousins now on the bench and reportedly open to a trade, San Francisco could be a logical destination for him.
Bleacher Report recently floated a hypothetical trade that would send Cousins to San Francisco in exchange for edge rusher Bryce Huff and a conditional 2026 fifth-round pick.
“Shanahan will turn to Jones for Week 2, but if he flounders, Cousins could be just the QB to step in and salvage San Francisco’s season,” Kristopher Knox wrote.
“San Francisco would get a spot-starter, while the Falcons would get cap relief, draft capital, and pass-rushing depth,” Knox added.
The 49ers are built to contend this season, and losing Purdy for any stretch of time could jeopardize their momentum. Jones, who was signed in free agency this offseason, has yet to show consistent command of Shanahan’s offense. His preseason performances were uneven, and the coaching staff may be reluctant to hand him the reins for an extended period.
On the other hand, Cousins has a long-standing relationship with Shanahan dating back to their time in Washington. Shanahan has spoken highly of Cousins and pursued him in 2017 before the team ultimately settled for Jimmy Garoppolo. Cousins is known for his accuracy, poise, and ability to operate within a structured system, all traits that align with San Francisco’s offensive philosophy.
However, a potential trade would present financial challenges. Cousins’ contract includes a no-trade clause and a significant amount of guaranteed money. Atlanta would likely require the 49ers to cover part of Cousins’ remaining salary, and Cousins would need to approve the move.
Nonetheless, with San Francisco aiming to compete this season, the front office may be willing to take on the cost for a proven veteran who can keep the offense on track. Such a move would reflect the team’s urgency to preserve its Super Bowl aspirations while navigating the uncertainty surrounding Brock Purdy’s recovery.