Minnesota Vikings Inquire About 49ers Backup Quarterback Mac Jones

As the NFL trade deadline approached, the Minnesota Vikings explored multiple options to address their mounting struggles at the quarterback position, including making an inquiry to the San Francisco 49ers regarding backup Mac Jones. According to league reports, the Vikings reached out to test the waters on Jones' availability, but ultimately found the asking price to be too steep.

Minnesota's urgency at the position intensified following a difficult stretch that included a dismal offensive performance in a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Carson Wentz struggled heavily under center before being replaced by Max Brosmer, while free-agent acquisition Kyler Murray has battled both inconsistent play and a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined.

The 49ers reportedly placed a Day 2 draft pick—meaning a second- or third-rounder—as their asking price for Jones. General manager Lynch noted that the team would require significant motivation to move their backup quarterback, stating, "We'd have to be really motivated to move Mac, a situation where it makes too much sense. But we're very comfortable with keeping Mac."

NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that while Minnesota checked in on Jones, their focus appeared to pivot elsewhere as the deadline ticked down. "Minnesota is calling around on QBs all day. The Vikings checked in on Mac Jones in San Francisco, but the price is too high right now," Russini stated, adding that league sources believed the Vikings were heavily pursuing a reunion with Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders.

Jones has successfully rebuilt his reputation in San Francisco after a rocky conclusion to his tenure with the New England Patriots. Selected 15th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by New England, Jones earned a Pro Bowl nod and led the Patriots to a postseason appearance as a rookie. However, his performance declined over the following two seasons due to injuries and inconsistent play, ultimately leading to a trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars before he found a home with the 49ers.

Last season, Jones stepped in for an injured Brock Purdy and started eight of 11 games, completing 69.6% of his passes for 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions while leading San Francisco to a 5-3 record in those starts. Despite external trade buzz, the 49ers have remained firm in valuing Jones as crucial insurance behind Purdy, leaving the Vikings to look elsewhere for veteran stability.