Before Mac Jones led the San Francisco 49ers to a thrilling 26-23 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, October 2, he experienced an unusual start to his game day.
As reported by The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Jones recounted to teammates seeing a floating body while gazing out at the water from his hotel balcony in Marina del Rey, California.
This shocking discovery prompted a call to the police, and while the players boarded the bus for their game at Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium, they came across investigators, along with a coroner’s van, at the marina.
As of Friday, October 3, this incident is still under investigation, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Despite this unsettling event, along with battling an injured knee and cramps during the game, Jones delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 342 yards with two touchdowns, achieving no interceptions, securing a vital overtime triumph against a key rival.
“A lot happened today, but I feel good,” Jones stated to reporters after the game. “Just working through some things. Being able to play is what really matters. If I can stay safe, it’s my responsibility to be on the field.”
He continued, “The team had my back. We emphasized all week the toughness required for four quarters, and it ultimately boiled down to which team could endure better, and I believe that was us. We need to keep this fortitude to keep winning.”
Thursday’s game was Jones’ third start of the season after 49ers starter Brock Purdy suffered an injury on September 7 against the Seattle Seahawks. Purdy’s status for the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, October 12, remains uncertain.
“I was brought here to serve as a backup, and that’s my role,” Jones explained. “My mission is to secure victories for [Purdy] as it aids us in the long run. That’s the purpose of it all. I’ve been in his shoes; I understand what it’s like to be a starter, and it’s essential for your backup to step in and win as it could determine playoff chances come season’s end.”
In March, Jones signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the 49ers. He was drafted No. 15 overall by the New England Patriots in 2021, where he spent the first three years of his career before appearing in ten games for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.
Following the game, Jones received commendations from both his fellow teammates and head coach, Kyle Shanahan, for his tenacity on the field. His resilience and determination were evident in his performance.
“I was genuinely impressed with his performance,” Shanahan remarked to the media. “He was phenomenal in the initial half. Even after taking some hits in the second half, he pushed through. To play against that defense, throw as often as he did without committing turnovers, it was remarkable. I can’t sing his praises enough.”
Star running back Christian McCaffrey added, “He’s a total warrior. He commands respect as a leader, and he’s definitely someone we can rally behind. His attitude and play on the field are commendable.”
The 49ers currently hold a 4-1 record for the season, despite facing obstacles due to injuries affecting key players such as Nick Bosa, George Kittle, Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall, and Jauan Jennings.
