With the large number of injuries the San Francisco 49ers have sustained in 2025, it's been surprising to understand the amount of success head coach Kyle Shanahan has put together this season.
A large part of that success is due to backup quarterback Mac Jones stepping up while Brock Purdy has dealt with multiple setbacks throughout this season.
Although it appears that Purdy is healthy now, Jones was able to get eight starts this season. The 27-year-old balled out. With him being under contract for 2026, he could be a trade candidate for the upcoming offseason.
More: 49ers reportedly wanted George Pickens in 2024 Brandon Aiyuk trade
What teams could be calling to trade for Mac Jones?
In the eight games Mac Jones replaced Brock Purdy this season, he registered a 5-3 record while adding 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 69.6 completion percentage. Impressive for a backup to say the least.
With another $2.8 million linked to his contract that runs through 2026, teams that need a quarterback will be calling.
"There are plenty of teams with unsettled 2026 quarterback situations (Colts? Steelers?) That 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," ESPN's Dan Graziano wrote in a recent article.
It's worth mentioning that the Dolphins and Cardinals have pivoted from their franchise quarterbacks as well this season, hinting at a possible change for the future.
San Francisco will have to be willing to part ways with Jones before any trade buzz picks up, but the former first-round pick is expected to get some interest after stepping up big for the 49ers this season.
More NFL news:
ESPN predicts Browns re-sign resurging LB to long-term extension.
Seahawks' Jaxon Smith-Njigba breaks another franchise record in win vs. Falcons