The San Francisco 49ers are currently navigating a challenging situation with their starting quarterback. While Mac Jones’ recent performances have shown that he has the potential to win games, head coach Kyle Shanahan remains firm in his stance regarding any trade discussions involving the backup quarterback. As speculation about Jones being traded away began to heat up, renowned insider Matt Maiocco stepped in to set the record straight.

Every 49ers fan was concerned about the chances of the backup quarterback, Mac Jones, being traded by the end of this season. While Shanahan neither confirmed nor denied the update, renowned journalist Matt Maiocco stepped forward to clear the air regarding the matter. While applauding Jones’ commendable performance in Brock Purdy’s absence (toe injury in the season opener), he denied any possibility of the 49ers considering a trade.

“Mac Jones has done very well after signing a two-year contract with the 49ers to serve as the backup to Brock Purdy. He has been one of the most valuable players on the team through this stage in the season after starting six games in place of Purdy. Backup quarterback is an important role, and the 49ers are set for next season with Jones in that spot. It seems unlikely the 49ers would field a trade offer that even tempts them to deal him away for next season,” he said.

Brock Purdy suffered a toe injury (described as a turf-toe variant) and a left shoulder issue after the 2025 season began. He was officially ruled out for Week 2 as he struggled with the ongoing issues and therefore had to miss six games this season, including the recent one against the Houston Texans.

However, Mac Jones stepped up in Purdy’s absence, completing 67.0 % of his passes on 130 completions from 194 attempts. He also threw for 1,404 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions so far in the ongoing season. His QBR is 55.3, and he ranks 17th in passing yards among quarterbacks this season. With 5 wins and 3 losses so far, the team eagerly awaits Purdy’s return while holding back Jones as a backup starter.

While their recent clash against the Texans resulted in a big loss, it wasn’t disappointment but an eye-opener for Jones.

Mac Jones applauds the Houston Texans’ defense following their recent defeat

The San Francisco 49ers’ recent 26-15 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday was a result of a one-sided setup. The game saw the Texans score early, and then they never looked back. C.J. Stroud turned out to be a standout performer as he threw for more than 300 yards and two touchdowns while the 49ers’ defense struggled to stop him. The 49ers’ offense could not move the ball well and went scoreless in the first half.

“After the game, Jones shared his learning from the last three games played against the Texans. Got a lot of respect for those guys. I’ve gone against them three times in the last year, and every time I’ve left the field thought they were the best defense in the NFL,” he said.

Besides the acceptance, Jones finished the game with 19 completions on 32 attempts for 193 yards. He threw two touchdowns and one interception. His late interception ended the 49ers’ last drive and confirmed the defeat. While there’s still no update on Brock Purdy’s return, it remains to be seen how the backup quarterback keeps up with his levels.