The New England Patriots have found their franchise quarterback in Drake Maye, but his predecessor is still looking for another opportunity to shine.
Mac Jones was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars before the 2024 season. He started seven games for the Jaguars before they declined his option for last season. He signed a two-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers and backed up Brock Purdy last season. Purdy missed time, and Jones ended up starting eight games. He looked much better after an offseason with Kyle Shanahan.
Jones threw for 2,151 yards in 11 total games. He had 13 passing touchdowns and six interceptions. His completion percentage was at a career high 69.6%. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton predicted the 49ers would trade him to the Carolina Panthers before the trade deadline next season.
"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," wrote Moton on Thursday. "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. 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."
Young led the Panthers to the playoffs last season and almost helped pull off an upset of the Los Angeles Rams. However, he needs to prove he can be a franchise quarterback. Jones would be a low-risk addition for the Panthers if Young cannot prove himself.
Jones is hoping to be on a Sam Darnold-like trajectory. Darnold struggled in the NFL for five seasons before spending a season with the 49ers. He then signed with the Minnesota Vikings and was a Pro Bowler who received MVP votes. He then signed with the Seahawks and established himself as the franchise quarterback, winning a Super Bowl in Year 1.
Jones has already shown he has improved since his time with the Patriots. Like Darnold, he was a high draft pick who did not pan out at his first stop. A trade to the Panthers could set him up to earn a starting job in Carolina or elsewhere next offseason.
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