49ers trade rumor from ESPN is more bad news for Steelers, Vikings and Dolphins

There has been no shortage of speculation surrounding the future of quarterback Mac Jones with the San Francisco 49ers.

After reviving his career with the Niners in 2025 while filling in for an injured Brock Purdy, Jones is expected to draw interest from teams that need a starting quarterback, and that has led many to believe San Francisco would deal him.

However, reports continue to emerge about the Niners intent to hold on to Jones, with the latest coming from ESPN's Adam Schefter.

"Despite continued speculation, the 49ers have no plans to trade QB Mac Jones this off-season and fully intend to bring him back to back up Brock Purdy, per sources," Schefter reported.

This is the second report on Jones in recent days, with the other coming from The Athletic's Dianna Russini, who reported the same thing about the Niners' intent to keep Jones rather than trade him.

"For teams looking to swing a deal for 49ers backup QB Mac Jones, I’m told San Francisco is not looking to part with the 2021 first-rounder," Russini reported.

Even head coach Kyle Shanahan has said he doesn't envision Jones playing anywhere but San Francisco in 2026.

It's understandable why the Niners want to hold on to Jones given Purdy's injury issue this past season. But, on the flip side, it certainly wouldn't be a bad idea for the Niners to capitalize while Jones' stock is as high as it is.

Could this simply be public posturing from the Niners in order to attract attention and possibly garner a better deal? That's very possible.

All that said, all of this is bad news on the surface for teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings, all of whom could be in the market for a quarterback this offseason.

Aaron Rodgers' status remains up in the air in Pittsburgh, the Dolphins are likely done with Tua Tagovailoa, and the Vikings need an insurance policy or a total replacement for J.J. McCarthy.

As of right now, it doesn't look like Jones is going to be an option for anyone in 2026.

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