49ers Predicted to Cash In With Shocking Mac Jones Trade

Speculation has swirled for months around a potential trade of backup quarterback Mac Jones by the San Francisco 49ers this offseason. Yet as the NFL Draft draws near—with just over three weeks remaining—every signal suggests the team plans to keep the former first-round selection on the roster for the upcoming campaign.

While some observers believed the 49ers might be tempted to move Jones in exchange for a premium selection, such as a first- or second-round pick, there are compelling reasons for them to hold firm.

Brock Purdy, the team’s starting quarterback, has already battled several injuries early in his career, underscoring the importance of reliable depth behind him. At the same time, dealing Jones could provide valuable assets to refresh an aging roster core.

Analyst Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report recently highlighted six unlikely but realistically possible draft-day surprises, including the possibility of the 49ers sending Jones away in a first-round deal.

“However, the 49ers won’t be willing to let him go on the cheap. They have their long-term starter in Brock Purdy, but they’ve experienced enough injuries at the position in recent years to know the value of a dependable backup. That doesn’t mean that San Francisco wouldn’t be willing to trade Jones, who is entering the final year of a two-year contract. However, it would take a substantial offer to land him. The 49ers might listen to a first-round offer during the draft, and there’s a non-zero chance that a quarterback-needy team might make it.”

Knox noted that clubs like the Pittsburgh Steelers or Arizona Cardinals could potentially reach out with serious interest. The Steelers face uncertainty at the position because 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers has yet to commit to playing another season. Meanwhile, the Cardinals moved on from Kyler Murray, who has since joined the Minnesota Vikings.

Jones enjoyed a promising start to his NFL journey, earning a Pro Bowl nod after an impressive rookie year. His stock fell sharply afterward, but the 2025 season allowed him to restore much of his reputation. When Purdy missed eight games due to a toe injury, Jones stepped in effectively, helping the 49ers maintain their momentum and post a strong 12-5 record.

That performance even carried into the postseason, where San Francisco pulled off an upset victory over the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round.

Jones’ strong showing created a short-lived quarterback debate in San Francisco. However, once Purdy returned to full health, it was evident that he remained the clear starter for the franchise.

In today’s NFL, having capable quarterback depth can make the difference between a successful season and a disappointing one, since any team sits just one injury away from relying on its backup. Should the 49ers ultimately decide to trade Jones, they must feel extremely confident about identifying and securing an adequate replacement for Purdy.

Beyond the quarterback position, San Francisco faces several roster needs. The defensive front seven requires additional pass-rush talent, while the wide receiver group and offensive line could both benefit from fresh reinforcements and added size. These areas will be critical if the organization hopes to capture its sixth Super Bowl title in the near future.

Ultimately, the 49ers’ front office must navigate asset management wisely—whether that involves retaining Jones for stability or capitalizing on a strong offer to bolster other parts of the team.

With the draft approaching quickly, clarity on Jones’ future could emerge soon, shaping San Francisco’s strategy for the 2026 season and beyond.