The San Francisco 49ers could be among the most active teams leading up to the NFL trade deadline on November 10. At least that's what insider Jordan Schultz believes.
Schultz has heard both teams linked to several defensive players, including pass-rushing specialists Josh Sweat and Khalil Mack, as well as defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. Other names—who aren't officially on the market—are also reportedly being mentioned. In fact, the insider says he'd be surprised if San Francisco and Chicago didn't make a trade.
The needs are real. San Francisco lost rookie Alfred Collins for the season before Week 1 even began due to a torn patellar tendon. Nick Bosa, meanwhile, is recovering from a calf injury. Behind Osa Odighizuwa, depth is thin, despite the emergence of rookies Romello Height and Gracen Halton.
A reunion with Buckner?
The name DeForest Buckner is particularly exciting for fans. Traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2020, he could return to shore up the interior of the defensive line with his experience, even though he's dealt with some physical setbacks this season.
Khalil Mack is another intriguing option. The Los Angeles Chargers veteran already has three sacks this season. As for Josh Sweat of the Arizona Cardinals, a trade within the same division would present an additional challenge.
The 49ers' defense has already shown improvement, with 11 sacks in five games, compared to just 20 last season. However, an addition could make all the difference for the second half of the season.
Created by humans, assisted by AI.