As the San Francisco 49ers prepare for the 2026 offseason following the recent Super Bowl featuring their NFC West rival, the Seattle Seahawks, significant attention surrounds the quarterback situation, particularly regarding Mac Jones. While rumors have emerged about Jones’ potential trade, reports indicate that the 49ers intend to retain him as a backup. The discussions around a possible Mac Jones 49ers trade have been prominent, but the team’s stance appears firm for the upcoming season.
Brock Purdy holds the starting quarterback position, a role not expected to change soon. However, when Purdy was sidelined due to injury during part of this season, Jones stepped in as his replacement for eight games and performed well, securing five wins. This strong showing has contributed to the 49ers’ confidence in retaining Jones on their roster.
Trade Inquiries Expected but 49ers Plan to Keep Jones
NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero, speaking onsite at the Super Bowl, highlighted that while teams around the league have expressed interest in Mac Jones, the 49ers anticipate keeping him on the roster in 2026. Pelissero shared insights on the calls the 49ers have received, explaining that multiple teams have shown curiosity about trading for Jones, but so far, no move has been agreed upon.
Coach Kyle Shanahan said recently he’d be very surprised if Mac Jones is not on the roster in 2026,
Pelissero noted.
Jones himself has remained measured on the subject, acknowledging the interest but not explicitly requesting a change of scenery. In a session on the show Insiders, Pelissero mentioned that Jones said it was “nice to be talked about,” though he did not confirm whether he desires a fresh start elsewhere. Pelissero also suggested that if the 49ers retain Jones without a trade, a contract adjustment could be considered given the situation.
Didn’t directly answer if he’d like a fresh start somewhere else, but did say it’s nice to be talked about. If the 49ers do not trade him and the price would be high, maybe a contractual adjustment could be in order.
?Tom Pelissero, NFL Network reporter
Backing from Analysts Confirms the 49ers’ Intentions
Further confirming the 49ers’ stance, journalist Dianna Russini reported that the team is not looking to part ways with Jones, a position supported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Schefter communicated that the 49ers fully intend to bring Mac Jones back as the primary backup quarterback behind Brock Purdy heading into the next season.
The 49ers have no plans to trade QB Mac Jones this off-season and fully intend to bring him back to back up Brock Purdy, per sources,
Schefter tweeted.
Jones contributed effectively this year, completing 2,151 passing yards with 13 touchdowns against six interceptions, demonstrating his reliability as a backup option for San Francisco.
Team Stability and Future Outlook for the Quarterback Position
Maintaining Jones in the quarterback roster provides security for the 49ers, especially considering the risk of injury to their starter, Brock Purdy. Jones’ performance offers a dependable contingency without significant drop-off in play quality, a factor the team values as it continues to pursue championship goals.
Looking ahead, the 49ers’ decision to retain Jones signals confidence in their current quarterback depth chart. Although trade discussions will likely continue across the league, San Francisco is setting clear expectations that Mac Jones remains an integral part of their plans through the 2026 season and beyond. This approach helps stabilize the quarterback situation while enabling the team to focus on building around their core as they prepare for future playoff runs.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo, and @JudyBattista: Is an 18-game season coming? Best-case scenario for Kyler Murray is a release; #49ers expected to get trade calls for Mac Jones; Don’t rule out a Kirk Cousins return to ATL. pic.twitter.com/1ApXvg6Pa3
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026
Despite continued speculation, the 49ers have no plans to trade QB Mac Jones this off-season and fully intend to bring him back to back up Brock Purdy, per sources. pic.twitter.com/3KzFoAQlOU
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 8, 2026
