Andrew Buller-Russ
Before the offseason kicked off, it felt like a foregone conclusion that the San Francisco 49ers would consider trading Mac Jones to capitalize off his newfound value. After all, the 49ers were able to get the 2021 first-round pick under contract for just $4.2 million per season on a two-year deal last offseason.
Jones played arguably the best football of his life in San Francisco, leading the 49ers to a 5-3 record while Brock Purdy was injured. With Jones now headed into the final year of his contract, many felt the 49ers would sell high on the 27-year-old.
Then, the 49ers’ front office started talking, explaining how much they value Jones as a quality backup to Purdy. After all, they found themselves relying on Jones a lot last season, and he was a key part of them returning to the postseason. They don’t want to just give the QB away, even if it could be a great opportunity for his career.
Thus, reports began to come out, indicating that zero teams have inquired about trading for Jones. Others suggested the 49ers may have scared teams away by asking for a Day 2 draft pick in exchange for Jones, who would only come with one year of security.
Now, The Athletic‘s Dianna Russini‘s latest report reveals why teams may indeed be shying away from a Jones trade. Russini indicates that “a few teams” have called the 49ers about trading for Jones. Yet, those interested have described the 49ers’ asking price as “astronomical.”
Though she wasn’t able to expand on what that trade cost may be. Still, when other former Pro Bowl quarterbacks can be had for an even lower rate than Jones, it’s not hard to see why teams wouldn’t want to part with precious draft compensation. If the 49ers want to trade Jones, they’ll have to either lower their asking price or hope a team that misses out on their top targets gets extremely desperate.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders ‘Expected’ to Target Veteran Pro Bowl Quarterback
