49ers Reportedly Asking 'Astronomical' Price for QB Mac Jones in Trade Talks

Teams interested in acquiring Jones have balked at the 49ers' steep trade demands.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 7:03pm by Ben Kaplan

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According to reports, the San Francisco 49ers are receiving trade inquiries about backup quarterback Mac Jones, but the team's asking price is described as "astronomical." The 49ers are seeking a high return for Jones, who is under contract at a relatively low salary compared to most starting NFL quarterbacks. While Jones showed promise in limited playing time last season, teams have not been willing to meet the 49ers' steep trade demands at this time.

Why it matters

The 49ers' high asking price for Jones reflects the team's belief in his potential as a starting-caliber quarterback, despite his current backup role. However, the reluctance of other teams to meet those demands suggests the 49ers may struggle to find a suitable trade partner unless their price comes down or Jones' value increases further.

The details

According to ESPN's Dianna Russini, "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 49ers are looking to get significant draft capital or a high-value player in exchange for Jones, who is under contract for a relatively low salary compared to most starting NFL quarterbacks. Jones showed promise in limited playing time last season, including a strong performance against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday Night Football.

  • In 2026, the 49ers added wide receiver Mike Evans on a multi-year deal to give quarterback Brock Purdy a new number one target.
  • The 49ers are also looking to address other needs this offseason, including the future of offensive tackle Trent Williams and adding another pass rusher to the defense.

The players

Mac Jones

The 49ers' backup quarterback, who showed promise in limited playing time last season and is now drawing trade interest from other teams.

Brock Purdy

The 49ers' starting quarterback, who will benefit from the addition of wide receiver Mike Evans to the team's offense.

Trent Williams

The 49ers' veteran offensive tackle, whose future with the team is uncertain as they look to address other roster needs this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“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, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The 49ers will likely continue to field trade inquiries for Mac Jones, but they may need to lower their asking price if they hope to find a suitable trade partner this offseason. The team's ability to address other roster needs, such as the offensive line and pass rush, could depend on their success in moving Jones for the right price.

The takeaway

The 49ers' high valuation of Mac Jones reflects the team's belief in his potential, but it also highlights the challenges they may face in finding a trade partner willing to meet their steep demands. As the offseason progresses, the 49ers will need to balance their desire to maximize the return on Jones with the need to build a contending roster around Brock Purdy and the rest of the team's core players.