The San Francisco 49ers might be playing a high-stakes game of chess with backup quarterback Mac Jones. Rumors are swirling that the Niners could be open to trading Jones if the right offer-a second-round draft pick-comes their way, either before or after the 2026 NFL Draft.
NFL insider Jason La Canfora has reported that teams on the hunt for quarterbacks are bracing for some tough negotiations with the 49ers regarding Jones' availability.
49ers Set a High Bar for Mac Jones
According to La Canfora, several team executives expect the 49ers to do everything they can to keep Jones in San Francisco. These execs believe that the price to snag Jones in a trade might be more than most teams are willing to pay.
Jones first found himself in the trade rumor mill last fall. He stepped up with a 5-3 record in eight starts while San Francisco’s starting QB, Brock Purdy, was out with a toe injury.
Some argued that head coach Kyle Shanahan should have continued with Jones’ momentum even after Purdy was back in action. However, Purdy reclaimed his spot and led the team to a playoff berth and a postseason victory on the road.
In the offseason, the 49ers locked down Purdy with a five-year, $265 million contract extension, featuring $181 million in guarantees and a no-trade clause. This came after they had signed Jones to a two-year deal. An unnamed high-ranking official seeking a quarterback mentioned that Shanahan aims to have both Purdy and Jones on the roster come September.
What Will It Take to Acquire Mac Jones?
The same official noted Shanahan's reluctance to part with Jones, suggesting that any team interested in him would need to present an offer that truly impresses the 49ers. Another executive cautioned potential suitors to be ready to trade for a starter of Jones' caliber, as the 49ers are likely to hold out for a significant draft pick in return.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell recently speculated that a team could offer a package including a 2026 second-round pick, a conditional 2027 fifth-round selection, and a conditional 2028 third-round pick for Jones, along with a 2027 third-round choice. If La Canfora’s insights hold true, it remains to be seen whether such an offer would sway the 49ers' decision to keep Jones as they head into the new season.