Mac Jones quietly put together one of the strongest seasons of his career in San Francisco, stepping into Kyle Shanahan’s quarterback-friendly system and making the most of the opportunity. After Sam Darnold’s brief stint as QB2 behind Brock Purdy, it was Jones who seized the backup role and ran with it-figuratively, of course.
Over 11 games, Jones completed 201 of 289 passes for 2,151 yards, tossing 13 touchdowns against six interceptions. Solid numbers, especially considering he was operating in a system that demands precision, timing, and the ability to process quickly.
At one point during the season, Jones’ play was strong enough to spark a legitimate conversation: Should he start over Brock Purdy? That debate didn’t last long-Purdy ultimately held onto the job and led the offense-but Jones proved his value as a capable, steady hand in a system that’s not always easy to master. For a five-year veteran whose career has had its share of ups and downs, this was a much-needed reminder of what he can bring to the table.
Now, as the 2026 offseason gets rolling, Jones’ name is starting to heat up in the trade rumor mill. He’s still under contract with the 49ers, but that hasn’t stopped other teams from kicking the tires.
According to reporting out of Mobile, Alabama, the Minnesota Vikings are one of the teams monitoring Jones’ situation closely. The Vikings still believe in JJ McCarthy, but there’s growing concern within the organization about his injury history.
That’s opened the door for Minnesota to explore other quarterback options, and Jones is firmly on their radar.
The Vikings aren’t the only team interested, but their situation makes them a particularly intriguing fit. They’re in that middle ground-not in full rebuild mode, but also not quite ready to hand the keys to a young quarterback with durability questions. Mac Jones, with his experience and ability to manage an offense, could be a stabilizing presence.
Minnesota has also reportedly shown some level of interest in Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, another young talent who’s struggled to stay healthy. And in late December, McCarthy’s name even popped up in a wild trade scenario involving Joe Burrow, though that remains firmly in the rumor category.
Meanwhile, the 49ers have their own offseason priorities. After a disappointing showing from their defense in 2025-especially when it came to generating consistent pressure-they’re looking for ways to retool that side of the ball.
One potential path? Moving Jones in a trade package that could help them acquire draft capital, which in turn could be used to pursue a star like Maxx Crosby.
The idea comes from a report suggesting that San Francisco could use Jones as a trade chip to help bring in the kind of elite pass rusher they sorely lacked last season.
It’s a scenario that could benefit all parties involved. The 49ers get the defensive boost they need, the Vikings (or another QB-needy team) get a proven veteran with starting experience, and Jones gets a fresh opportunity to compete for a starting role-something that’s still very much within reach after the season he just put together.
No deal is imminent, but the buzz is real. And with quarterback movement always at a premium in the NFL, Mac Jones is a name to watch as teams start reshuffling their rosters ahead of the 2026 campaign.