The San Francisco 49ers had two different quarterbacks make starts during the 2025 NFL season. While Brock Purdy was dealing with a right toe injury and missed eight games, it was Mac Jones who stepped up under center.
In 11 appearances and eight starts, the former first-round pick completed 201-of-289 passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 97.4 passer rating. Most importantly, he kept San Francisco afloat, guiding the team to a 5-3 record.
After being a key piece to the 49ers' success, Jones has begun to be rumored as a potential trade candidate for teams in need of quarterback help. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton listed the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers as potential landing spots.
Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
However, going into his sixth season in the NFL, the 27-year-old isn't focusing on that kind of speculation. During an appearance on the "Rich Eisen Show," Jones clarified that he is locked in on the upcoming season.
"The trade deadline is not until a little bit through the season," Jones said. "I try not to keep up with it and really want to just keep getting better. I played decent last year and I think I can play a lot better, which is what I’m striving to do this summer and see if I can improve on my technique and see if that helps elevate me to get a big deal in the future. I always say be where your feet are and my feet are in San Francisco and I like it a lot.”
After filling in nicely for Purdy last year, the 49ers may not be inclined to trade their backup. However, he may be on the move after 2026 either way as he plays under the final season of his two-year, $8.4 million contract.
ALSO SEE:
- Can Jalen Tolbert Help Malik Willis and the Miami Dolphins Transcend the NFL’s Worst Roster?
- Keon Coleman Faces Crucial 2026 Season to Prove His Worth for Buffalo Bills
- Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Biggest Offseason Questions
With the trade deadline set for Nov. 3, though, San Francisco may receive an offer they can't refuse if interest in Jones continues to build.
