In recent weeks, the San Francisco 49ers have shown little eagerness to trade their backup quarterback, Mac Jones, despite increasing interest from other teams. General manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have both indicated in press conferences that the team plans to hold onto Jones, who played an important role filling in for the injured Brock Purdy last season. As the league’s 2026 new year approaches, the 49ers appear steady on their stance, unwilling to lower their asking price for the quarterback.
Interest Grows but Asking Price Described as Extremely High
Several NFL teams with quarterback needs have reached out to the 49ers about Jones, who remains under contract through 2026. However, according to NFL reporter Dianna Russini of The Athletic, San Francisco’s trade demands are considered “astronomical” by many interested parties around the league.
A few teams have called the San Francisco 49ers about QB Mac Jones, but many interested around the league describe their price as “astronomical.”
The exact nature of these demands has not been publicly detailed, but industry speculation suggests the 49ers might be seeking at least a first-round pick or multiple later-round selections in exchange for Jones.
Strategic Hold on Jones Rather Than a Desperate Sale
Even as Jones showed promise during his eight starts last season—stepping up admirably to secure a 5-3 record—his current trade value may not justify the high price San Francisco has set. The 49ers seem committed to keeping Jones as their primary backup to Purdy, a sentiment openly expressed by both Lynch and Shanahan. Alternatively, the team may be waiting until free agency settles and the NFL Draft unfolds to evaluate which teams still require a quarterback before revisiting trade talks.
This patient approach suggests that San Francisco is more than willing to hold onto Jones for the right compensation, rather than make a rushed deal at a lower value. Potential suitors will likely need to overpay significantly to acquire the quarterback, and the 49ers appear prepared to stand firm on their demanding terms.
Implications for the 49ers and Mac Jones Trade Market
The 49ers’ position on Mac Jones signals a cautious but confident strategy, leveraging current market conditions affected by the influx of quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa and Geno Smith. Holding out for an “astronomical” price could delay any trade, but it demonstrates San Francisco’s desire to either retain a reliable backup or extract maximum value in any potential deal. How this stance will shape Jones’ future and the 49ers’ roster moves remains closely watched as free agency and draft activities progress.
A few teams have called the San Francisco 49ers about QB Mac Jones, but many interested around the league describe their price as “astronomical.”
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 10, 2026
