The San Francisco 49ers are bringing back a familiar face, and George Kittle could not be happier. After the Indianapolis Colts traded DeForest Buckner back to San Francisco on Tuesday, the veteran tight end took to social media to celebrate the reunion with his former teammate.

“DEFOOOOO THE BOYS ARE BACK,” Kittle posted on X, sharing his excitement about Buckner returning to the Bay Area.

DEFOOOOO THE BOYS ARE BACK @DeForestBuckner @JuiceCheck44 @49ers pic.twitter.com/jUoMNJ96Dx

— George Kittle (@gkittle46) October 27, 2026

Buckner spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the 49ers after being selected seventh overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He developed into one of the league's top defensive tackles before San Francisco traded him to Indianapolis in 2020 in exchange for a first-round pick.

Now, six years later, Buckner is headed back to the organization where his NFL career began. The Colts reportedly received a 2027 fourth-round pick in exchange for the three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, giving San Francisco another established presence along its defensive line.

The reunion comes at an important time for the 49ers, who are looking to strengthen their roster for another postseason run. Buckner brings experience, interior pass-rushing ability, and familiarity with the organization, making him a valuable addition as San Francisco looks to compete in a crowded NFC West.

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Kittle and Buckner were teammates from 2017 through 2019, including San Francisco's run to Super Bowl LIV. Their previous time together helps explain why Kittle was so enthusiastic about welcoming him back.

Meanwhile, Indianapolis appears to be moving toward a roster overhaul. The Colts traded eight-time Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks earlier Tuesday before sending Buckner to San Francisco. Both veterans were approaching the end of their current contracts, giving the Colts an opportunity to collect draft capital.

The biggest question remaining is whether running back Jonathan Taylor could also be dealt before the trade deadline. Moving Taylor would be another major decision for Indianapolis, but the departures of Nelson and Buckner have already raised questions about how far the organization is willing to go.