49ers Offseason Advice: Trade Mac Jones, Pass on Maxx Crosby, Address EMF

San Francisco 49ers need to address concerns over nearby electrical substation and make key roster moves this offseason

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Tribune provides offseason advice for the San Francisco 49ers, including trading quarterback Mac Jones, passing on acquiring Raiders' pass rusher Maxx Crosby, and addressing concerns over the nearby electrical substation that some players believe may be impacting the team's health and performance.

Why it matters

The 49ers had a successful 12-5 season in 2025 despite key injuries, but need to make strategic moves this offseason to build on that success. Addressing the EMF concerns from players could help improve the team's health, while trading Jones and avoiding an expensive Crosby deal could allow them to get younger and cheaper through the draft.

The details

The article suggests the 49ers should trade Jones, a former first-round pick, for a second-round pick that could be used to move up in the draft or acquire other assets. It also advises the team to pass on trading for Crosby, the Raiders' star pass rusher, due to the high cost in draft capital and salary cap space. Instead, the 49ers should focus on improving their pass rush through the draft, potentially targeting Texas A&M's Cashius Howell. The piece also emphasizes the need for the 49ers to thoroughly investigate the concerns raised by players about the potential impact of the nearby electrical substation on the team's health and performance.

  • In December 2025, Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce had touchdown catches of 20 and 16 yards against the 49ers.
  • Last month, 49ers general manager John Lynch said the team "looks into everything" and player health is the "utmost priority".

The players

Mac Jones

A former first-round pick quarterback for the 49ers who had an above-average season filling in as the starter in 2025.

Maxx Crosby

An All-Pro pass rusher for the Raiders who could be a trade target for the 49ers, but would likely come at a high cost in draft capital and salary cap space.

Cashius Howell

The SEC Defensive Player of the Year from Texas A&M, who could be a target for the 49ers to improve their pass rush in the draft.

Christian McCaffrey

The 49ers' star running back who has expressed mild reservations about the potential impact of the nearby electrical substation on the team's health and performance.

George Kittle

The 49ers' veteran tight end who has also raised concerns about the potential effects of the nearby substation, along with fullback Kyle Juszczyk.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.