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49ers weigh re-signing DeForest Buckner before deadline

By Drooid · Oct 19, 2026, 10:55 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

49ers Pursue Buckner

The San Francisco 49ers are considering reacquiring defensive tackle DeForest Buckner before the Nov. 10 trade deadline.
Buckner has recorded four sacks and 26 tackles in six games for Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Colts fell to 2-4 after a 26-20 loss to the winless Tennessee Titans.
Indianapolis fired general manager Chris Ballard after the defeat, sparking fire-sale speculation.
Kyle Juszczyk posted “Come home” on Instagram urging Buckner to return to the 49ers.

Summary

Mack Signs 1-Year

Khalil Mack signs a one-year, $18 million fully guaranteed deal and becomes a potential 49ers target.
Lee Chan says the Chargers could split Mack’s salary so San Francisco assumes the second half.
Buckner carries $23 million cash with a $26.6 million cap hit, fitting the 49ers’ salary space.
The 49ers re-signed Dre Greenlaw and Deebo Samuel, showing a strategy of retaining familiar players.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL instituted its first hard salary cap, set at $34.6 million after a lucrative TV deal, forcing teams to cut or trade high-paid veterans. Commissioner Paul Tagliabue’s rule led the Super Bowl-winning Dallas Cowboys to release safety Darren Woodson, saving $2.5 million. The same cap discipline guides today’s San Francisco 49ers as they evaluate defensive end DeForest Buckner’s contract.

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49ers Pursue Buckner

The San Francisco 49ers are considering reacquiring defensive tackle DeForest Buckner before the Nov. 10 trade deadline.
Buckner has recorded four sacks and 26 tackles in six games for Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Colts fell to 2-4 after a 26-20 loss to the winless Tennessee Titans.
Indianapolis fired general manager Chris Ballard after the defeat, sparking fire-sale speculation.
Kyle Juszczyk posted “Come home” on Instagram urging Buckner to return to the 49ers.

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