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The Indianapolis Colts have agreed to trade defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round selection, as reported by ESPN. This move brings Buckner back to the franchise that originally selected him with the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Return to San Francisco
Buckner competed for the 49ers through the conclusion of the 2019 campaign before moving to the Colts prior to the 2020 season. The three-time Pro Bowler returns to Levi’s Stadium to reinforce the defensive line for his former club.
During the current campaign, the veteran defender has recorded 31 combined tackles, four sacks, and three pass breakups. Over his 11-year professional career spanning 158 games with 153 starts—including all seven matchups this season—he has accumulated 683 combined tackles, 101 tackles for loss, 75.5 sacks, 31 pass deflections, nine forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, and two touchdowns.
Team Dynamics and Roster Additions
San Francisco star tight end George Kittle expressed excitement regarding the transaction on social media, posting, “DEFOOOOO THE BOYS ARE BACK @DeForestBuckner @JuiceCheck44 @49ers.”
Buckner enters a defensive unit featuring Osa Odighizuwa, Mykel Williams, Fred Warner, and Nick Bosa, who has missed several contests due to a calf injury. The San Francisco defense surrenders 299.3 total yards per contest, which ranks fourth in the league, while allowing a league-best-tied three rushing touchdowns and just 89.0 rushing yards per game, good for fifth overall.
Front Office Changes in Indianapolis
The Colts hold a 2-5 record and sit second in the AFC South following the dismissal of general manager Chris Ballard, which sparked speculation about roster turnover under new leadership. Tuesday proved active for Indianapolis, as the organization also shipped Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks, acquiring three total draft picks across 2027 and 2028 while freeing up more than $17.7 million in salary cap space.
Additional roster members, such as running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs, have emerged as potential trade candidates in the near future.
Meanwhile, the 49ers hold a 6-1 record, stand at the top of the NFC West, and prepare to face the Las Vegas Raiders on November 8.
