It only took a handful of starts in relief of the injured Brock Purdy for the San Francisco 49ers to realize they had something worthwhile in backup quarterback Mac Jones.
Boasting a record of 5-3 during Purdy's absence, Jones did plenty to resurrect what had turned into a disappointing career that began as a first-round NFL Draft pick of the New England Patriots back in 2021.
And with the offseason quarterbacking market shaping up to be yet another example of more teams in need than quality signal-callers available, both Jones and the Niners are fully aware his employer might be different entering the upcoming season.
Signed through 2026, Jones understands San Francisco might opt to keep him again as Purdy's backup, considering the latter has a bit of an injury history now after dealing with turf toe for much of last season.
That said, the 49ers also understand Jones should command plenty of attention from other quarterback-needy teams, and going through head coach Kyle Shanahan's tutelage has helped other embattled QBs turn their respective careers around.
Just ask the Seattle Seahawks' Sam Darnold.
This all creates a very uncertain future for Jones, one which he's trying to embrace as best as he can.
Mac Jones opens up on whether or not he'll stay with 49ers
There's no doubting Jones appreciated his time in the Bay Area, telling reporters as much after the Niners were eliminated in the playoffs by Darnold's Seahawks in the divisional round.
"I love everybody here, and it was exciting this year," Jones said, via NBC Sports Bay Area. "I felt like every time I came into work, it wasn't work. We're having fun in the quarterback room, in the offensive meeting, on the practice fields. And then, I just carried it into games."
Yet San Francisco's injury attrition -- which ultimately aided Jones' resurgence -- paired with the need to add younger and cheaper talent helps reinforce the notion of trading the backup signal-caller for a prized draft asset.
As a result, Jones could easily find himself on another roster by the time offseason workouts come around.
""Whatever happens, happens," Jones added.