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The San Francisco 49ers have been riding out a rough situation with a backup quarterback who has looked phenomenal while deputizing for starter Brock Purdy. As Purdy deals with a lingering turf toe issue, Mac Jones has been relatively strong - putting up a record of 5-3 while the starter has been out. While Purdy appears to be nearing a potential return to the lineup, former New England Patriots quarterback and Fox Sports analyst Tom Brady believes the Niners should stick with Jones. "You gotta go with the hot hand," Brady told the "FOX NFL Sunday" crew after being asked if Jones, the former New England first-round pick, should stay in the role. He also referenced his own career. After all, Brady began his career by replacing Drew Bledsoe and making the most of it - going on to win seven Super Bowl titles. "Yes, you stay with him. … I gotta believe that's why I'm still sitting here today, because they (the New England Patriots) went with the hot hand about 25 years ago. What do you guys expect me to say?" The Niners have been keeping within range of a playoff spot in Purdy's absence, but recently lost to the NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams. Purdy has been absent for seven of the 49ers' past eight games due to his injury. He has been getting some practice reps in, but they have only been limited. In the Rams defeat, Jones completed 33-of-39 passes for 319 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. The Patriots flameout has been one of the top quarterbacks in the league since stepping into the starting role. Since his takeover, Jones ranks second in passing yards per game, eighth in completion percentage over expectation, ninth in completion percentage, and tenth in yards per attempt, according to ESPN.
