Carolina Panthers Linked to San Francisco 49ers QB Mac Jones in Trade Rumors

The San Francisco 49ers’ popular quarterback Mac Jones is entering the final year of his contract with the team as he is surrounded by trade rumors. Amid all the mess, the Carolina Panthers have emerged as a potential landing spot for the star player.

Player

Mac Jones

Current Team

San Francisco 49ers

Rumored Teams

Carolina Panthers, Las Vegas Raiders

Contract Status

1 Year Remaining (Signed a revised contract; Unrestricted Free Agent in 2027)

Salary Cap Hit (New Team)

$1.4 Million (Acquiring team assumes remaining base salary and workout bonus)

Trade Likelihood

Low

Latest Insider Update

Carolina Panthers have emerged as a potential landing spot

Potential Return

Mid-to-Late Round Pick (Projected Day 2 or early Day 3 selection if a quarterback-desperate team overpays)

Which teams are interested in Mac Jones?

Ever since the last few months, a number of rival teams have been linked to the San Francisco 49ers’ popular quarterback Mac Jones. As per NFL insiders, the Carolina Panthers have been reportedly eyeing the star player.

What are insiders saying about the trade rumors?

A few hours ago, in a recent report by Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton, he noted, “The Athletic's Joseph Person reported that Carolina isn't expected to sign Young to an extension this offseason, suggesting the team wants to see more from him in the upcoming term. If Young regresses, the Panthers may try to pivot at quarterback midseason to make it back to the playoffs in a winnable division that didn't have a team above .500 last year. ” Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton added, “In that predicament, they shouldn't turn to Kenny Pickett or Will Grier. Neither has had much success on the pro level. If Young isn't the guy, the Panthers should pursue San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Mac Jones. Last season, Jones played well in place of Brock Purdy, who battled injuries, throwing for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns and six interceptions with a 69.6 percent completion rate in 11 games (eight starts). ”

Contract details and salary cap implications

If the San Francisco 49ers’ popular quarterback Mac Jones is traded during the 2026 season, the acquiring team would be taking his $1.4 million base salary and a $100,000 workout bonus, while his $2.25 million in performance incentives would also transfer. For the San Francisco 49ers, trading Mac Jones would instantly clear his base salary from the cap space but the team would also have to take on a y $1.62 million in lost salary cap space for 2026.

How could the trade impact the teams?

For the Carolina Panthers, trading for Mac Jones would be pretty affordable, and he would be a pretty impactful addition to the team as Bryce Young struggles on the field.