Mac Jones Emerges as Prime Trade Target Following Stellar 2025 Fill-In Role
MEXICO CITY, January 17, 2026 – The narrative surrounding quarterback Mac Jones has undergone a dramatic shift. Once viewed as a fading former first-round pick after a tumultuous exit from New England, Jones has re-established his value with a standout 2025 campaign for the San Francisco 49ers. His performance as an injury replacement for Brock Purdy has not only kept the 49ers’ playoff hopes alive but has also positioned the 27-year-old as one of the most intriguing trade assets heading into the 2026 NFL offseason.
A Career Resurrected in San Francisco
Jones’s journey to this point has been a rollercoaster. After a promising Pro Bowl rookie season with the New England Patriots in 2021, his career derailed over the next two years amidst coaching instability and declining performance. He was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a sixth-round pick in March 2024, where he served as a backup. Seeking a fresh start, Jones signed a modest two-year, $7 million deal with the 49ers in March 2025 to back up Brock Purdy.
The plan changed when Purdy was sidelined for much of the season with a turf toe injury. Thrust into the starting role for eight games, Jones thrived in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system. He led the 49ers to a 5-3 record, completing a career-high 69.6 percent of his passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. His passer rating of 97.4 was the best of his career, showcasing the accuracy and decision-making that made him a first-round pick.
Key Facts & 2025 Performance
| Statistic | 2025 Season (with SF) |
|---|---|
| Games Started | 8 |
| Record as Starter | 5-3 |
| Passing Yards | 2,151 |
| Completion Percentage | 69.6% |
| Touchdowns / Interceptions | 13 / 6 |
| Passer Rating | 97.4 |
| Contract Status (2026) | 1 year remaining, $2.8M base salary |
The Looming Offseason Decision
With Purdy healthy and reaffirmed as the undisputed starter, the 49ers face a strategic decision. Jones is under contract for 2026 at a bargain $2.8 million, providing elite insurance for a quarterback in Purdy who has dealt with injuries. However, his proven ability to win games has created significant external interest.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Jones has “re-established himself as a starting quarterback” and is a “prime trade candidate for 2026.” This sentiment is echoed across the league, with ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer noting that a potentially “lackluster” 2026 quarterback draft class could drive up Jones’s trade value. Analysts speculate the 49ers could command a Day 2 draft pick (second or third round) in exchange.
Potential Suitors in a QB-Needy Market
Several teams with uncertain quarterback situations are projected to have interest in acquiring Jones to compete for a starting job. Based on league reports, the most frequently mentioned potential destinations include:
- New York Jets: Perennially searching for stability, the Jets could see Jones as an immediate upgrade.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: With an aging or departing veteran, Jones could fit their offensive structure.
- Cleveland Browns: As a potential long-term plan post-Deshaun Watson.
- Las Vegas Raiders: Seeking a definitive answer at the position.
- New Orleans Saints: Continuing their search for a successor to Drew Brees.
- Arizona Cardinals: If they move on from Kyler Murray, though a division trade is less likely.
However, not all analysts believe a trade is imminent. Jeff Howe of The Athletic argues that given Purdy’s injury history and Jones’s affordable contract, the 49ers have “all the reasons to keep him,” suggesting San Francisco may value the security he provides over a mid-round draft pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mac Jones do to improve his trade value?
In eight starts for the 49ers in 2025, Jones posted the most efficient numbers of his career, demonstrating he can successfully operate a complex, timing-based offense and win games. His affordable contract for 2026 makes him even more attractive.
Why would the 49ers trade a reliable backup?
While Jones is valuable depth, the 49ers could capitalize on his peak trade value to acquire significant draft capital. If they believe other needs on the roster are more pressing, or if they are confident in a cheaper third-string option, a trade becomes logical.
When could a trade happen?
Any trade would occur during the 2026 NFL offseason, likely around the time of free agency in March or the NFL Draft in April. Teams would want to acquire Jones in time for him to participate in their offseason programs.