Before the offseason began, it felt like a foregone conclusion that the San Francisco 49ers would consider trading Mac Jones to capitalize on his newfound value. After all, the 49ers were able to get the 2021 first-round pick under contract to a two-year deal last offseason worth just $4.2 million per season.
Jones probably played 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 entering the final year of his contract, many felt the 49ers would trade away the 27-year-old.
Then, the 49ers' front office started talking about how much they value Jones as a quality backup to Purdy. After all, they found themselves relying heavily on Jones last season, and he was a key part of their comeback run to the postseason. They don't want to just give up on the QB, even if it's a big opportunity for his career.
Thus, reports began to surface indicating that zero teams have inquired about trading for Jones. Others suggested that the 49ers might have spooked teams by asking for a second-day draft pick in exchange for Jones, who would have come with only one year of protection.
Now, athleticThe latest report from Diana Russini reveals exactly why teams are shying away from a Jones trade. Russini indicated that "a few teams" have called the 49ers about trading for Jones. Still, those interested have described the 49ers' asking price as "astronomical."
However she was not able to detail what the trade costs might be. Still, when other former Pro Bowl quarterbacks can be found at an even lower rate than Jones, it's not hard to see why teams might not want to part with precious draft compensation. If the 49ers want to trade Jones, they will either have to lower their asking price or expect the team to be extremely desperate to miss out on their top target.
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