Jones, who flashed potential when Purdy was sidelined during the 2025 season, posted a 97.4 passer rating across 11 regular-season games, with 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Those numbers, coupled with his occasional high-level plays, have kept him squarely in trade conversations even as the 49ers resist moving him.
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky has argued that Jones could fetch meaningful value, given the league’s interest in a starting-caliber quarterback and the relative scarcity of top signal-callers. He suggested the 49ers might receive a second- or third-round pick, or another package, and noted the team could use any assets to refresh the roster or pursue bolder moves.
Beyond Jones, the 49ers are also connected to potential blockbuster moves, with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noting San Francisco is among five teams showing interest in Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby. The report highlighted a wide field of suitors—including the Bills, Lions, Cowboys, and Ravens—along with potential fits like the Buccaneers for a deal of this magnitude.
This offseason context—along with a perceived quarterback shortage entering the 2026 cycle—has intensified discussions about whether the 49ers should leverage Jones for youth or upgrade potential. While Schefter’s report puts a pause on immediate trading, the market’s appetite for Jones and other quarterback moves remains a talking point around NFL rosters.
For now, the 49ers’ stance is clear: Jones remains in San Francisco as Purdy’s backup, and no trade is planned in the near term. The ongoing dialogue about Jones’ value, combined with Crosby’s trade rumors, ensures the quarterback position will stay in the crosshairs of front offices as teams prepare for the next cycle.
