League insiders confirm that acquiring San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones will demand a hefty price. Throughout the offseason, rumors have suggested that any trade for Jones would require significant assets, and recent conversations with NFL executives reinforce that notion. Teams interested in the quarterback must be ready to meet steep demands to convince the 49ers to part with him.
Executives Emphasize Jones’ Status as a Valuable Starter
Jason La Canfora, who spoke with multiple league officials, reported firm consensus that 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan regards Jones as a top-20 NFL starter. One executive told La Canfora,
“You’d better be prepared to trade for a starter, and a top-20 starter, because that’s what Kyle is going to say he is,”
adding,
“They’re going to hold out for a real (draft) pick.”
This suggests that San Francisco expects compensation beyond low-value selections, likely requiring at least a Day 2 draft pick or more in any potential swap.
San Francisco Prepared to Defend Their Quarterback
Another executive underscored San Francisco’s commitment to keeping Jones:
“I know that Kyle doesn’t want to lose him,”
they said, continuing,
“I think they’ll put up a pretty good fight. You’re going to have to knock their socks off.”
This highlights the team’s unwillingness to settle for less than an impressive offer, especially given Jones’ recent performance and importance to the franchise.
Jones’ Impact During the 2025 Season Reinforces His Value
Jones revitalized his career in 2025 when he stepped in after Brock Purdy’s injury, leading the 49ers to a 5-3 record. During that stretch, he threw 13 touchdowns and posted a career-high 69.6 percent completion rate. His clutch performances, including two game-winning drives and a dramatic overtime victory over the Los Angeles Rams, further increased his trade value. Jones proved he can manage pressure situations effectively, making him a valuable asset for San Francisco’s future plans.
Market Conditions and Team Strategy Set the Bar High
Given a limited veteran quarterback market, the 49ers have strong motivation to retain Jones or seek commensurate value in a trade. Although he will become a free agent after the 2026 season, San Francisco stands to benefit from potentially receiving a compensatory draft pick, which Shanahan is likely to capitalize on. The coach’s secure position within the organization supports the likelihood that the team will prioritize their long-term advantage over short-term gains.
What Would It Take for Teams Like Pittsburgh to Make the Deal?
Interest from teams such as the Pittsburgh Steelers raises questions about the exact cost of acquiring Jones. Would a third-round pick combined with additional assets suffice, or would the 49ers demand a second-round selection or higher? The consensus indicates that to even engage San Francisco seriously, offers must be compelling. Any approach short of this threshold is expected to receive little attention, reflecting how highly the 49ers regard Jones’ trade value.
