Jones signed a two-year deal with the 49ers last offseason and started eight games in relief of Brock Purdy, delivering efficient play that helped keep the offense afloat and secure a postseason berth. With a strong performance—nearly 70% completion, 2,151 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions—Jones has positioned himself as a viable starter in the right situation, heightening his value across a quarterback-desperate league.
San Francisco has publicly expressed a desire to retain Jones, yet sources with knowledge of the market indicate a willingness to listen on offers if they improve the team in the long run. Jason La Canfora reported that the 49ers would “do all within reason” to keep him but warned that the asking price could exceed what many teams are willing to part with, given Jones’ team-friendly deal and proven upside.
The likelihood of a trade hinges on the returning package and the 49ers’ assessment of how much Jones could help them in 2026 versus the cost to acquire a starter or a high draft asset. Some executives suggest the 49ers may demand a top-20 pick or equivalent compensation for a true starter, reflecting Jones’ potential as a bridge or interim option for a quarterback-needy team.
Overall, the 49ers must balance valuing a reliable backup who can start if needed against the reality that a substantial trade could reshape their roster and quarterback depth. As the market develops, Jones’ trade value will be one of the defining questions of San Francisco’s offseason strategy.
