Steelers Reportedly Eyeing 49ers QB Mac Jones in Trade

Pittsburgh has draft capital to make a move for the young QB, according to NFL analyst

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:36pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly considering trading for San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones. According to NFL analyst Mark Powell, the Steelers could send a second-round and sixth-round pick to the 49ers in exchange for Jones, who had a strong 2025 season as a backup in San Francisco.

Why it matters

The Steelers are in need of a long-term solution at quarterback after failing to re-sign veteran Aaron Rodgers. Jones, a former first-round pick, could provide an intriguing young option to build around if the trade materializes.

The details

Powell suggests the Steelers have the draft capital to make a move for Jones, who is seen as a coveted backup QB. The 49ers are reportedly seeking a high price for Jones, but the Steelers have multiple third-round picks that could allow them to part with a second-rounder. Jones showed promise in limited action in 2025, going 5-3 as a starter and throwing 13 touchdowns to 6 interceptions.

  • The 2026 NFL season is approaching, with teams looking to solidify their rosters.

The players

Mac Jones

A quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who had a strong 2025 season as a backup, going 5-3 as a starter with 13 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who is expected to return for his 22nd NFL season, but whose future remains uncertain.

Mark Powell

An NFL analyst who has predicted the Steelers could trade for Mac Jones.

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers, who is reportedly seeking a high price for Mac Jones.

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What they’re saying

“The Steelers have a lot of draft capital to play with, which is the only reason they'd consider this move. A second-round pick might sound expensive for a backup quarterback, but few retreat QBs are more coveted than Jones, and John Lynch's asking price is said to be astronomical.”

— Mark Powell, NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will need to determine if they are willing to part with the draft capital required to acquire Mac Jones from the 49ers. If a deal is reached, it could provide the Steelers with a potential long-term solution at quarterback.

The takeaway

The Steelers' reported interest in Mac Jones highlights the team's need for a long-term answer at quarterback. While the cost may be high, Jones' potential upside could make him an attractive trade target as the Steelers look to build for the future.