Bhan-BLOCKBUSTER TRADE ALERT: The 49ers Stun the NFL by Pulling Off a Jaw-Dropping Deal, Shipping Out Mac Jones in Exchange for a High-Profile Pro Bowl Duo — Analysts Are Calling It the Boldest Move of the Shanahan Era!
The San Francisco 49ers, currently sitting at an impressive 4-1 in the 2025 NFL season, have been navigating a turbulent start with a string of injuries, most notably to starting quarterback Brock Purdy. Despite these challenges, backup quarterback Mac Jones has stepped up admirably, sparking discussions about his role with the team and his trade value around the league. In a jaw-dropping hypothetical trade scenario, we explore a blockbuster deal that would see the 49ers trade Jones for a high-profile Pro Bowl duo, shaking up the NFL landscape.
The Rise of Mac Jones in San Francisco
Mac Jones, thrust into the spotlight due to Purdy’s toe injury, has been nothing short of stellar in his three starts this season. In Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams, Jones completed 33 of 49 passes for 342 yards, throwing two touchdowns with zero interceptions and posting a passer rating of 100.9. Over the season, he’s amassed over 900 passing yards, six touchdowns, and just one interception, with a QBR of 65.3—surpassing notable starters like Baker Mayfield and Jordan Love, and boasting a better passer rating than Justin Herbert and Patrick Mahomes.
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Jones’ efficient play has kept the 49ers’ offense humming and their NFC West lead intact. His familiarity with Kyle Shanahan’s complex offensive system, coupled with his ability to win games, has made him an invaluable asset. However, his success has also drawn attention from quarterback-needy teams, prompting trade speculation as the NFL’s in-season trade deadline approaches.
The Hypothetical Blockbuster Trade
Instead of the previously floated trade by CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin, which proposed sending Jones to the New York Jets for veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor and a 2026 fourth-round pick, let’s imagine a far bolder move. In this blockbuster scenario, the 49ers trade Mac Jones to the Jets for a Pro Bowl duo: Aaron Rodgers, the four-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion, and Sauce Gardner, the All-Pro cornerback, along with a 2026 second-round draft pick.
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Why the Jets Would Consider It
The Jets, perennial contenders searching for stability at quarterback, might see Jones as a long-term solution. At 27, Jones offers youth, a proven ability to manage a high-powered offense, and a cost-effective contract. Rodgers, now 41, has battled injuries and inconsistent performance in recent years, and his hefty contract could be offloaded to create cap flexibility. Pairing Jones with the Jets’ talented roster, including stars like Garrett Wilson, could reinvigorate their offense. Meanwhile, trading Gardner, while painful, could be justified by the 49ers’ inclusion of a high draft pick and the Jets’ need to address other roster holes.
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Why the 49ers Would Pull the Trigger
For San Francisco, acquiring Rodgers would provide a veteran presence capable of stepping in immediately if Purdy’s injury lingers. Rodgers, a 10-time Pro Bowler and one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, could thrive in Shanahan’s system, which emphasizes timing and precision. His experience and playmaking ability could elevate the 49ers’ Super Bowl aspirations for 2025. Additionally, Sauce Gardner, a lockdown cornerback with two Pro Bowl nods and First-Team All-Pro honors, would bolster San Francisco’s secondary, pairing perfectly with Charvarius Ward to create one of the league’s most formidable defensive backfields. The 2026 second-round pick adds future flexibility to address needs along the offensive or defensive lines.
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The Risks and Rewards
This trade would not be without risks for San Francisco. Trading away Jones, who has proven his worth as a reliable starter and insurance policy, could leave the 49ers vulnerable if Rodgers struggles with injuries or fails to adapt to Shanahan’s system. Furthermore, Jones’ youth and upside make him a potential long-term starter, something Rodgers cannot offer at this stage of his career. Losing Jones could also disrupt the offensive rhythm the 49ers have built, as Rodgers would need time to acclimate.
On the reward side, Rodgers’ pedigree and Gardner’s elite defensive skills could transform the 49ers into immediate Super Bowl favorites. Rodgers’ ability to make off-schedule throws could unlock new dimensions in Shanahan’s offense, while Gardner’s presence would allow defensive coordinator Steve Wilks to scheme more aggressively against top passing attacks. The draft pick provides additional capital to maintain roster depth, a critical factor given San Francisco’s injury woes.
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Why This Makes More Sense Than the Original Proposal
The earlier CBS Sports proposal of trading Jones for Tyrod Taylor and a fourth-round pick was underwhelming. Taylor, a 15-year veteran with a 1.7% career interception rate and two 3,000-yard passing seasons, is a solid backup but lacks Jones’ upside. At 36, Taylor’s injury history and limited ceiling make him a less appealing option for a contending team like the 49ers. A fourth-round pick, while useful, doesn’t justify losing a quarterback who’s outplaying several established starters.
In contrast, the hypothetical Rodgers-Gardner trade package offers star power and immediate impact. Rodgers, despite his age, remains a top-tier quarterback when healthy, and Gardner is a generational talent at a premium position. This deal aligns with the 49ers’ win-now mentality while providing assets to compete in the future.
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The Verdict: A Bold Move for a Super Bowl Push
While trading Mac Jones would be a tough pill to swallow for 49ers fans, especially given his recent performances, this blockbuster deal could catapult San Francisco to the top of the NFC. With Rodgers under center, Gardner locking down receivers, and a second-round pick in tow, the 49ers would solidify their status as a powerhouse. However, the trade’s success hinges on Purdy’s recovery timeline and Rodgers’ ability to stay healthy and adapt. For now, the 49ers are wisely holding onto Jones, their “top insurance policy,” but if the Jets—or another team—come calling with a Pro Bowl duo like this, the conversation could get very interesting.
