The San Francisco 49ers needed help on the defensive line, and the Indianapolis Colts' fire sale gave them an opportunity to address that problem. By trading for DeForest Buckner, San Francisco is bringing back a familiar face who can help improve its pass rush as the team deals with injuries.
According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, ESPN research showed that the 49ers had a 23% pressure rate when rushing four or fewer defenders, the second-worst mark in the NFL. Buckner, who led San Francisco with four sacks before the trade, gives defensive coordinator Raheem Morris another proven pass rusher to work with.
Buckner spent the first four seasons of his career with the 49ers before being traded to Indianapolis in 2020. Now, he returns to the team that drafted him seventh overall in 2016, bringing experience and production to a defense that needs both.
San Francisco has continued to navigate injuries along its defensive front, making Buckner's arrival especially important. His ability to pressure quarterbacks from the interior can create opportunities for the rest of the defensive line, while forcing opposing offenses to account for another established threat.
Article Continues BelowThe 49ers reportedly acquired Buckner from Indianapolis in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. With the Colts moving veterans after also trading Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco found an opportunity to strengthen its roster without surrendering a premium draft selection.
The 49ers are looking to compete for a Super Bowl, and improving their pass rush could be essential to that goal. Buckner's return does not solve every defensive concern, but it gives Morris another weapon as the team looks to make a postseason push.