Shanahan confirms the 49ers have discussed signing ex-Giants QB Jones, who originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The 49ers won’t sign former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, but he was on their radar.

Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed to reporters Wednesday that San Francisco has discussed signing Jones, who is reportedly headed to the Minnesota Vikings.

“We talked about it,” Shanahan said. “Yes, that’s all.”

Jones was released by the Giants last week after they decided to bench him in favor of backup Tommy DeVito.

The No. 6 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Jones signed a massive four-year, $160 million contract in March 2023, but has struggled greatly throughout his NFL career.

In 69 career starts, Jones has a 24-44-1 record, including a 2-8 record this season.

The 49ers were considered a “situation to watch” regarding Jones by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler following starting quarterback Brock Purdy’s right shoulder injury.

However, Jones reportedly preferred to join a team in playoff contention, and since the 49ers were 5-6 entering their game against the Buffalo Bills in Week 13, they probably weren’t as attractive to Jones as the 9: 2 Vikings.

With Purdy limited to handoffs in Wednesday’s practice, the 49ers will continue with Brandon Allen, Josh Dobbs and quarterback Tanner Mordecai from the practice squad.

When a notable player with potential becomes available, most teams do their due diligence to see if he’s a fit, and it appears Shanahan and President of Football Operations/General Manager John Lynch have done just that have.

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