It was quite a chaotic period for the San Francisco 49ers in the weeks leading up to the 2021 NFL Draft.
The 49ers were linked with multiple standout quarterbacks for their No. 3 overall pick in the draft. From reports that the 49ers were much impressed with Mac Jones' run in his final season at Alabama to head coach Kyle Shanahan attending one of Justin Fields' Ohio State pro days, the team had many speculating on just who would be selected with the coveted pick.
In the end, the 49ers front office opted to use the pick to take former North Dakota State star Trey Lance. But if it was up to former 49ers quarterback Joe Montana, he would have drafted Jones instead, which he spoke about during a recent episode of ESPN’s “College Football Live” show.
“If I was the 49ers, I would have taken the kid from Alabama last year,” Montana said. “You know nothing against the guy that they took, it's just that, more pro-style offense, more used to being in pressure situations.
“We'll see what happens in San Francisco but nothing against Trey, but it's one of those things that here's a guy who's got a great team behind him and they're always fun to watch.”
As Montana touched on, Jones played in a multitude of pressure-filled games during his run at Alabama, which included multiple clashes against ranked SEC foes and the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship showdown with the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Still, Lance did have his share of key moments in must-win FCS games, which included leading North Dakota State to triumph in the 2020 NCAA Division I Football Championship Game.
Jones has recorded nine passing touchdowns through eight starts with the New England Patriots so far this season. On the other hand, Lance has totaled for a mere one start at quarterback for the 49ers, as the team is still going with Jimmy Garoppolo to be the starter at the position.
Follow Us
Subscribe