Mac Jones Shocks the NFL by Rejecting $150 Million Offers From the Raiders and Colts to Stay in San Francisco Despite a Reduced Salary and Role Change

San Francisco, California — December 19, 2025 — As the San Francisco 49ers push through the final stretch of the 2025 season and begin bracing for what could be a turbulent offseason, one of the biggest questions surrounding the franchise isn’t about Brock Purdy — it’s about the quarterback standing right behind him. Amid growing trade speculation, Mac Jones’ future has suddenly become a major storyline.

From a roster-construction standpoint, the 49ers’ quarterback room is both stable and unusually valuable. Purdy has fully recovered from his turf toe injury, reclaimed the starting job, and led the team to four straight wins, firmly reestablishing himself as the unquestioned QB1. That reality has naturally shifted attention toward Jones, who spent much of the season running the offense in Purdy’s absence and now finds himself viewed league-wide as a potential trade asset.

Jones’ market value has arguably never been higher. While filling in for Purdy, he delivered one of the most efficient stretches of football of his career, completing nearly 70 percent of his passes for more than 2,100 yards with 13 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He guided the 49ers to five wins as a starter, earning praise from multiple NFL insiders who have described him as a “former first-round pick revitalized by Kyle Shanahan’s system.”

That resurgence has not gone unnoticed. According to reporting from ESPN and Sports Illustrated, teams such as the Jets, Raiders, Colts, Steelers, Browns, and Vikings are all viewed as potential suitors. With a 2026 cap hit projected between $3–4 million, Jones is widely seen as one of the most affordable and reliable quarterback options on the market. Several analysts have suggested San Francisco could realistically command a Day 2 draft pick in a trade scenario.

Despite that interest, Jones’ personal stance tells a different story. Sources close to the team indicate that the 27-year-old quarterback has expressed a strong desire to remain in San Francisco — even if it means continuing as Purdy’s backup and restructuring his contract down the line.

“I understand exactly where I stand and what my role is within this system. I love San Francisco, I love wearing this uniform, and I deeply appreciate the fans here. That’s what makes me want to stay — to keep playing at Levi’s Stadium, even if it means taking less money. This is where my heart is.” Jones said.

The comments reflect a clear shift in mindset for a player who once carried the weight of being a first-round franchise quarterback. In San Francisco, Jones has rediscovered both his confidence and stability — something that eluded him late in his tenure in New England and during his brief stop in Jacksonville.

For the 49ers, the decision won’t be simple. Keeping Jones would give them one of the league’s strongest backup quarterbacks — a valuable insurance policy for a Super Bowl contender. But if a compelling trade offer materializes, the front office will have to weigh short-term security against long-term roster building.

As trade rumors swirl, Jones’ message is unmistakable. Not every path forward requires a departure. For him, San Francisco represents more than a career revival — it’s a place worth sacrificing for, even if that means stepping back to help a championship-caliber team move forward.