In a surprising turn of events, rumors are swirling that the San Francisco 49ers are in discreet talks with the New York Jets to acquire dynamic running back Breece Hall for a mere third-round draft pick. This potential trade, speculated by NFL writer Grant Cohn of San Francisco 49ers on SI, could reshape the 49ers’ backfield and provide a long-term solution to their running game as they plan for the future beyond star Christian McCaffrey.
Breece Hall: A Rising Star with Untapped Potential
Breece Hall, selected by the Jets in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance during his tenure in New York. At 6’1” and 220 pounds, Hall combines impressive speed (4.39 40-yard dash) with power and vision, making him a versatile, dual-threat back. In his 2024 season, Hall amassed 994 rushing yards on 223 carries (averaging 58.5 yards per game) and added 591 receiving yards with nine total touchdowns. Despite battling injuries and an underwhelming Jets offense, his ability to break tackles and contribute as a receiver out of the backfield has drawn comparisons to elite NFL running backs.
However, with Hall entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2025 and the Jets’ new head coach Aaron Glenn expressing interest in a three-back committee featuring rookies Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis, trade rumors have gained traction. The Jets’ front office, focused on rebuilding after a sub-.500 season, may be hesitant to commit to a second contract for a running back, making Hall an intriguing trade candidate.
Why the 49ers Are Interested
The 49ers, often dubbed “Jets West” due to their recent acquisitions of former Jets players and coaching staff, see Hall as a potential heir apparent to Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey, the 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons, raising concerns about his long-term durability. Hall’s skill set aligns perfectly with Kyle Shanahan’s offensive scheme, which thrives on versatile running backs who can run, catch, and create explosive plays. A third-round pick for a player of Hall’s caliber could be a steal for San Francisco, especially as they look to bolster their roster for a Super Bowl push in 2025.
The 49ers have already integrated former Jets personnel, including head coach Robert Saleh, special teams coordinator Brant Boyer, and players like Bryce Huff and Jason Pinnock. Adding Hall could further solidify this pipeline while addressing a critical need in their backfield. With Jordan Mason proving to be a reliable backup in 2024, Hall could form a dynamic duo, providing depth and flexibility.
The Trade Speculation: A Bargain or a Risk?
Grant Cohn’s proposal of a third-round pick for Hall has sparked debate among analysts. On one hand, Hall’s production and potential make him a valuable asset, and a mid-round pick could be viewed as a bargain for a player with his upside. On the other hand, the Jets’ reluctance to invest heavily in a running back, combined with Hall’s injury history and the depth of the 2025 NFL Draft’s running back class (featuring talents like Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty), might justify the low asking price.
There’s no concrete evidence that the 49ers and Jets are actively negotiating, and Cohn’s speculation remains just that—speculation. However, Hall’s cryptic social media activity, including a “fingers crossed” emoji posted on draft day, has fueled rumors that he may be open to a change of scenery. If the Jets are indeed prioritizing younger, cheaper options like Allen and Davis, they might see a third-round pick as a fair return for a player who could command a significant contract in 2026.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the 49ers, acquiring Hall could provide insurance against McCaffrey’s injury concerns while adding a young, explosive playmaker to their offense. At 24 years old, Hall has the potential to develop into a cornerstone of Shanahan’s system, offering a blend of speed, power, and receiving ability that few backs in the league can match.
For the Jets, trading Hall could free up cap space and provide draft capital to address other needs, particularly as they build around a new regime. However, parting ways with a talent like Hall carries risks, especially if he thrives in a new system. The Jets’ fanbase, already frustrated by years of mediocrity, may not take kindly to trading away a fan favorite for a mid-round pick.
Conclusion
While the idea of Breece Hall joining the 49ers for a third-round pick is still speculative, it’s a tantalizing possibility that could benefit both teams. For San Francisco, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move to secure a potential star. For the Jets, it’s a chance to pivot toward the future. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on whether these quiet negotiations come to fruition—or if Hall remains a Jet for his contract’s final year. Either way, this rumor underscores the ever-shifting dynamics of the NFL, where talent, strategy, and opportunity collide.