Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports recently examined five potential NFL trades and suggested that Crosby could command a package including a first- and second-round draft pick. Sullivan also listed the 49ers among four teams that could have interest in such a deal.
The bigger question is whether San Francisco would be willing to part with that level of draft capital while also absorbing Crosby's contract. The All-Pro pass rusher carries a $30 million base salary in 2026, and his high-priced deal runs through the 2029 season.
From a roster standpoint, Crosby would address a glaring need. The 49ers finished the season with just 20 sacks, the fewest in the NFL. The next-lowest total was recorded by the New York Jets, who posted 26.
While a trade for Crosby may be a long shot, the potential fit is undeniably intriguing.
Would the 49ers trade Mac Jones?
Sullivan also identified 49ers quarterback Mac Jones as a possible trade candidate. That scenario appears more realistic if another team makes a tempting offer, though San Francisco has been clear about how much it values Jones as Brock Purdy's backup.
"As with any player on our team, including myself and John, you always listen to people with trade offers, but we're also not into getting rid of good players," head coach Kyle Shanahan said last week. "And so, I'd be very surprised if Mac wasn't around us next year."
According to Sullivan, the Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins could be potential suitors, with a third-round draft pick projected as possible compensation.
He also noted that a weaker incoming rookie quarterback class could strengthen the market for a veteran option like Jones, who filled in admirably for Purdy in eight games this season.
"On top of that, Jones does fit the profile of a former first-round QB turned castoff, who is ripe for a career resurgence," Sullivan wrote. "Jones is still only 27 years old and has a cap hit of just over $3 million in 2026. That creates significant value for prospective teams to evaluate Jones as a potential next veteran to revitalize his career and propel their franchise to playoff contention."