San Francisco 49ers urged to trade Pro Bowl quarterback before start of 2026 NFL season

g in for an injured Jimmy Garoppolo during the 2026 season. However, Moton believes that the Niners should strike while the iron is hot and trade Jones to get the most value in return.

The idea of trading a promising young quarterback like Mac Jones may seem controversial to some, especially considering his strong performance in relief of Garoppolo. Jones showed poise, accuracy, and leadership on the field, leading the Niners to several key victories during his time as the starter. His potential as a franchise quarterback is evident, but Moton argues that the team should consider the long-term implications of keeping him on the roster.

One of the main reasons Moton suggests trading Jones is the uncertainty surrounding Garoppolo’s future with the team. While Garoppolo is under contract for the next few seasons, his injury history and inconsistent play have raised questions about his long-term viability as the starting quarterback. If the Niners decide to move on from Garoppolo in the near future, they would be left with Jones as the presumed starter. However, if Jones excels in that role, his value would only increase, making it more difficult for the team to retain him in the future.

By trading Jones now, the Niners could potentially acquire valuable draft picks or players that could help bolster their roster in other areas. This would not only provide immediate benefits to the team but also set them up for long-term success by adding additional talent to the roster. Moton argues that the Niners should be proactive in their approach to managing their quarterback situation, rather than waiting for potential issues to arise.

Another factor to consider is the financial implications of keeping Jones on the roster. While Jones is still on his rookie contract, his value will only increase as he continues to perform at a high level. This could make it difficult for the team to afford him when his contract is up for renewal, especially if he becomes one of the top quarterbacks in the league. By trading Jones now, the Niners could avoid potential cap issues down the road and free up resources to address other areas of need on the team.

Of course, there are risks associated with trading Jones. He has shown great potential and could develop into a top-tier quarterback in the league. If the Niners were to trade him away and he goes on to have a successful career with another team, it could be seen as a missed opportunity for the organization. However, Moton believes that the potential rewards of trading Jones outweigh the risks, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Garoppolo’s future and the financial implications of keeping Jones on the roster.

In addition to the on-field considerations, Moton also highlights the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with Jones throughout this process. Trading a player, especially a young quarterback with a promising future, can be a delicate situation that requires careful communication and transparency. The Niners would need to be upfront with Jones about their intentions and ensure that he is treated with respect and professionalism throughout the trade process.

Ultimately, the decision to trade Mac Jones will come down to the Niners’ front office and coaching staff. They will need to weigh the potential benefits of trading Jones against the risks and make a decision that aligns with the team’s long-term goals. While it may be a difficult choice to make, Moton believes that trading Jones now could be the best move for the organization in the long run.

In conclusion, Moe Moton’s article for Bleacher Report makes a compelling case for the Niners to trade Mac Jones while his value remains high. By being proactive in their approach to managing their quarterback situation, the team could potentially acquire valuable assets that would benefit them both in the short term and the long term. While there are risks associated with trading a promising young quarterback like Jones, the potential rewards of doing so could outweigh the potential drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision will rest with the Niners’ front office and coaching staff, who will need to carefully consider all factors before making a final decision.

Read full article

Source: Sporting News