Pressed into action as Brock Purdy's backup, Jones made the most of his opportunity in 2025. In eight starts, the former first-round pick completed nearly 70 percent of his passes for 2,115 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions—numbers that turned heads around the league and reestablished his value.
According to ESPN NFL insider Dan Graziano, that production is unlikely to go unnoticed during the offseason.
"Mac Jones is under contract with the 49ers for next year at $2.8 million, but the way he played in relief of Brock Purdy this season has people wondering what it would take to trade for him (and presumably pay him more) to come in and compete for a starting role," Graziano wrote. "There are plenty of teams with unsettled 2026 quarterback situations (Colts? Steelers?), which could look to a 27-year-old former first-round pick who has been through the Kyle Shanahan career rehab program as part of their potential solution."
Of course, the 49ers won't necessarily be eager to move from the veteran quarterback. Keeping Jones, a former first-round draft pick, under contract through 2026 provides San Francisco with valuable stability and experience behind Purdy, its standout former seventh-round draft pick.
However, it's worth noting that the 49ers also have another developmental option on the roster. Rookie quarterback Kurtis Rourke—also a seventh-round pick—recently had his practice window opened after recovering from an ACL injury. While unproven, Rourke could factor into the team's long-term quarterback depth plans.
For now, San Francisco is keeping all options open. If this season has shown them anything, it's that quarterback depth can be crucial for a team's success.
"We could always do something," general manager John Lynch said earlier this month, "but I think that's a position—nobody exhibited this more than the great Bill Walsh—is that the more quality players you have in that room, that sets you up for success. And I think you've got to keep your eyes and ears open to everything."
For now, the 49ers are focused on a strong finish to the regular season and building momentum for the playoffs. This final three-game stretch starts on Monday night, when the 49ers travel to Lucas Oil Stadium to face the Indianapolis Colts.
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