The San Francisco 49ers stepped up to the mic on Wednesday, with head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch giving fans and media some rare clarity on two key roster questions: the future of quarterback Mac Jones and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
Let’s start under center. Shanahan made it clear that, barring something unexpected, Mac Jones will be sticking around in 2026. While the Niners are always open to listening to trade offers - that’s just part of doing business in today’s NFL - Shanahan didn’t mince words about Jones’ value to the team.
“You always listen to people with trade offers,” Shanahan said. “But we're also not into getting rid of good players. And so I'd be very surprised if Mac wasn't around us next year.”
That’s a strong endorsement for a player who stepped in admirably when Brock Purdy went down this past season. Jones showed poise and command in a system that demands precision, and his performance didn’t go unnoticed around the league.
With several quarterback-needy teams out there, it’s no surprise that his name has been floated in trade chatter. But from the 49ers’ perspective, keeping a quality backup - especially one with starting experience - is a smart move, particularly in a league where one injury can shift the entire season.
Now, the situation with Brandon Aiyuk is a different story - and it sounds like that story is reaching its final chapter in San Francisco.
Lynch didn’t dance around the topic when asked about Aiyuk’s future with the team, confirming what’s been widely expected since the team voided the guarantees in his contract due to rehab-related issues and other concerns.
“I think it's safe to say he's played his last snap with the 49ers,” Lynch said.
That’s a significant development. Aiyuk has been a major part of the 49ers’ offense, and his departure leaves a noticeable gap in the receiving corps. With Jauan Jennings also set to hit free agency, the Niners are suddenly looking at a wide receiver room that could look very different - and very thin - heading into the offseason.
While Purdy remains the clear-cut starter at quarterback, and Jones provides a solid insurance policy, the wideout group is now a major question mark. The front office will need to address it aggressively, whether through the draft, free agency, or a trade. Because for all the talent San Francisco has elsewhere - from the trenches to the backfield - the passing game still needs dependable targets to thrive.
In short, the 49ers are entering the offseason with stability at the most important position in football - but with some serious work to do at one of the most dynamic.