Mac Jones, who stepped in for Brock Purdy during the 2025 season, played a crucial role for the San Francisco 49ers with a solid 5-3 record across eight starts, throwing 13 touchdowns against six interceptions. With nearly 70 percent completion and a 97.4 passer rating, Jones exceeded expectations, keeping the 49ers competitive in the NFC. However, since he is under contract for only one more year, any interested team looking to acquire Jones will need to arrange a trade.
Given the high demand for quality quarterbacks in the league, the 49ers stand in a position to gain significant value for Jones. Let’s examine three teams that appear to be the most logical destinations for Mac Jones in the 2026 offseason.
Potential Trade Options if the 49ers Decide to Move On from Mac Jones in 2026
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Quarterback Uncertainty
The Pittsburgh Steelers could become a leading candidate to acquire Mac Jones if Aaron Rodgers chooses to retire. With Mike McCarthy at the helm, the Steelers appear focused on short-term solutions rather than a full rebuild, despite widespread belief that rebuilding would better secure the franchise’s future. Acquiring Jones in a trade would provide Pittsburgh with a relatively safe quarterback option for the 2026 season, fitting the team’s common strategy of seeking quick fixes at the most critical position.
Minnesota Vikings’ Urgent Need for a Quarterback Upgrade
The Minnesota Vikings face a pressing need to upgrade their quarterback situation and are expected to be aggressive in pursuing starters during the upcoming offseason. After a strong 2024, the Vikings’ decision to part ways with Sam Darnold appears to have backfired, and their 2025 option, JJ McCarthy, delivered only replaceable-level performances. Bringing in Mac Jones would give the Vikings a capable starter for at least the 2026 season, but it wouldn’t fully solve their longer-term quarterback concerns beyond that.
New York Jets Seeking Stability Amid Rebuilding
Currently engaged in a rebuilding process, the New York Jets may continue accumulating draft picks since the 2026 NFL Draft lacks a clear franchise quarterback. The team could select a signal caller in the later rounds, hoping to develop them over time. Still, the Jets must present a somewhat stable presence at quarterback in the near term to support the coaching staff and roster. While trading for Jones after giving up key players like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams might seem questionable, Jones could offer much-needed offensive steadiness for at least one season.
As the 2026 offseason approaches, the San Francisco 49ers will have to weigh their options carefully regarding Mac Jones, while teams like the Steelers, Vikings, and Jets wrestle with their quarterback situations amid uncertainty. How these trade possibilities unfold could significantly affect the NFL landscape next year and beyond.
