A week into free agency, and Mac Jones is still with the San Francisco 49ers. It's been a whirlwind period, with most teams having secured their quarterback slots.
The quarterback carousel has certainly spun fast. Justin Fields made headlines by moving to the Kansas City Chiefs, while Kyler Murray inked a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings.
Tua Tagovailoa is now bound for Atlanta, and Daniel Jones has committed to an extension with the Colts. Meanwhile, Malik Willis is Miami-bound, and the Jets have brought Geno Smith on board.
The Arizona Cardinals seem to be embracing a rebuild, unless they’re banking on a breakout year from Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew. The Raiders, holding the No. 1 pick, are expected to go for quarterback Fernando Mendoza. This leaves Mac Jones with limited options, unless a surprise contender emerges.
Enter the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are once again in a holding pattern with Aaron Rodgers. As reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport at the NFL Combine, Rodgers was expected to make a decision before free agency kicked off. The latest word was it’s either the Steelers or retirement for Rodgers.
Why would the Steelers consider trading for 49ers QB Mac Jones?
Should Rodgers decide to retire, the Steelers would be left with Mason Rudolph and Will Howard. They might be eyeing prospects in the NFL Draft, like Ty Simpson. But if they’re not convinced by any of the draft options, a trade for Mac Jones could be on the table before the draft begins.
The Steelers have the 21st pick in the first round, plus pick No. 53, and a trio of third-round picks, courtesy of trading George Pickens and acquiring a compensatory pick. If they’re without a quarterback, giving up a second-rounder, or a package equivalent to that, isn't out of the question.
As the draft approaches, the 49ers might lower their steep asking price for Jones. Everything hinges on Rodgers’ decision, but if he retires, it could clear the way for the 49ers to deal Jones before the 2026 season kicks off-or perhaps later, if injuries or the trade deadline prompt action.