Jets Reportedly Eyeing 49ers' Mac Jones in Trade

A third-round pick could be the price tag to land the veteran QB in New York.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Jets are in need of a quarterback after a disappointing season, and reports suggest they could target San Francisco 49ers QB Mac Jones in a trade. Jones, 27, played well in relief of Brock Purdy in 2025, throwing 13 touchdowns to 6 interceptions in 8 starts. With the 2026 QB draft class considered underwhelming, the Jets may look to acquire Jones, who has a cap hit of just over $3 million next season.

Why it matters

The Jets have struggled to find consistent quarterback play for over a decade, missing the playoffs since 2010. Acquiring a proven veteran like Jones could help stabilize their offense and provide a path back to playoff contention, especially with the lack of top QB prospects in the upcoming draft.

The details

According to CBS Sports' Tyler Sullivan, the Jets could land Jones in a trade for a third-round pick. Jones stepped in admirably for the 49ers last season when Purdy went down, leading the team to a 5-3 record in his 8 starts. With the Jets' current QB situation uncertain, Jones could provide an experienced and affordable option to help turn the team around.

  • In the 2025 season, Jones played in 8 games for the 49ers, throwing 13 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is considered a weak class for quarterbacks.

The players

Mac Jones

A 27-year-old quarterback who played well in relief for the San Francisco 49ers in 2025, throwing 13 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in 8 starts.

New York Jets

An NFL team that has struggled to find consistent quarterback play, missing the playoffs since 2010.

Tyler Sullivan

A CBS Sports writer who reported the Jets could acquire Mac Jones from the 49ers in a trade for a third-round pick.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jones is still only 27 years old and has a cap hit of just over $3 million in 2026. That creates significant value for prospective teams to evaluate Jones as a potential next veteran to revitalize his career and propel their franchise to playoff contention.”

— Tyler Sullivan, CBS Sports Writer (CBS Sports)

What’s next

If the Jets and 49ers can agree on a trade, the next step would be for the teams to finalize the details and complete the transaction, allowing Jones to join the Jets for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Acquiring a veteran quarterback like Mac Jones could be a savvy move for the Jets, who are in need of stability and experience at the position. With the 2026 draft class lacking top QB prospects, trading for Jones may be their best path to improve their offense and make a push for the playoffs.