Mac Jones found himself in the spotlight as the San Francisco 49ers wrapped up their OTAs, even without throwing a pass due to some shoulder soreness. His words, however, spoke volumes: “It’s Brock’s team,” he said, acknowledging the current pecking order. Jones made it clear he’s committed to the team, emphasizing, “I’m not in the business of leaving good people,” and, “I also love it here.”
NFL Insider Jason La Canfora suggests that Jones might have a better shot at hitting the incentives in his contract if he were with another team, assuming Brock Purdy remains healthy and at the helm. The 49ers, however, have consistently indicated that they weren’t seriously considering trading Jones this offseason, despite the buzz.
Jones is regarded as a competent starting quarterback, having matured significantly since his days in New England. Under the guidance of 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, known for his ability to rejuvenate quarterback careers, Jones has proven to be a valuable asset, stepping up admirably when Purdy was sidelined.
Yet, as the season progresses, some rival executives speculate that Jones could become a luxury item for the 49ers. The NFC West is shaping up to be a battlefield, with Seattle defending their Lombardi Trophy and the Rams assembling a super team in Los Angeles. The 49ers’ defense, which boasted the best pass rush last year, faces an uphill battle to maintain its dominance.
For Jones to be traded, it would likely take a significant injury to a quarterback on a playoff-contending team. The hypothetical scenarios are intriguing: if Kyler Murray were to go down for the Minnesota Vikings, or if something happened to Patrick Mahomes late in the season, the landscape could shift dramatically. The Indianapolis Colts and Cincinnati Bengals, especially if Joe Burrow were injured, might also emerge as potential destinations.
Jones, in the final year of his contract, carries a manageable $3.15 million price tag for 2026, making him an attractive option. Yet, the 49ers have been firm in their stance, valuing Jones and resisting trade offers. It would take a substantial injury and an enticing offer for them to consider parting ways with him.
In the realm of pass rushers, the 49ers might leverage Jones as a trade asset to bolster their defense. Despite some cap constraints, they have been identified as a team poised to make a move for a pass rusher. Trading Jones wouldn’t necessarily aid their cap situation, but it could yield valuable draft capital for a potential deal.
The Rams continue to push the envelope, and the 49ers may need to get creative to keep pace. As one executive put it, “You have a backup QB who isn’t helping you win games, and somebody else wants him; it’s time to sell.” Kyle Shanahan, known for his knack for quarterback rehabilitation, could find his next project in the offseason.
Rumors about potential pass rush targets like Josh Sweat have been downplayed, but names like Maxx Crosby and Kayvon Thibodeaux remain in the mix. As the season unfolds, the 49ers will need to navigate these waters carefully, balancing their roster needs with the ever-present trade possibilities.
