49ers reunite with DeForest Buckner in trade with Colts
SFGATE • • sports
Key Points:
- The San Francisco 49ers have traded a 2027 fourth-round pick to the Indianapolis Colts to reacquire former first-round pick DeForest Buckner, as confirmed by multiple NFL insiders.
- Buckner, originally drafted by the 49ers in 2016, was a key defensive player and Pro Bowler before being traded to the Colts in 2020, where he earned a lucrative contract extension.
- The 49ers’ move comes amid a Colts fire sale, shortly after Indianapolis traded All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks; San Francisco paid less in draft capital than Seattle did for Nelson.
- There are conflicting reports about how Buckner’s salary will be handled, with some sources saying the 49ers will cover his nearly $8 million remaining contract for the season, while others indicate the Colts will pay part of it.
- Buckner is expected to rejoin the 49ers lineup after their bye week, making his return on November 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders at Levi’s Stadium.
