Colts Ship Buckner to 49ers for 2027 Pick
The move clears over $17.7 million in salary cap space for Indianapolis while San Francisco reunites with its 2016 draft pick.
By Camila Wisniewski ·
The Indianapolis Colts traded defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick.
Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowler, returns to the team that selected him with the No. 7 overall pick in 2016. He spent the 2017, 2018, and 2019 seasons in San Francisco before moving to Indianapolis for the 2020 campaign. At 32, he has accumulated 683 combined tackles, 75.5 sacks, and 101 tackles for loss over 11 years. In his 158 career games, he has started 153, including all seven contests this season. His current numbers include 31 combined tackles, four sacks, and three pass breakups.
The trade follows the firing of Colts general manager Chris Ballard. With new management in place, the franchise moved quickly to adjust its roster and financial structure. On the same day, the Colts sent another player to the Seattle Seahawks. These two transactions added three draft picks to the Colts' future, including two in 2027 and one in 2028. The moves also freed up more than $17.7 million in salary cap space. The team is currently 2-5 and sits in second place in the AFC South. Running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs remain potential candidates for future trades.
San Francisco is in a stronger position, holding a 6-1 record and first place in the NFC West. Buckner joins a defensive line that features Osa Odighizuwa, Mykel Williams, and Nick Bosa. Bosa has missed multiple games due to a calf injury. The 49ers defense allows 299.3 total yards per game, a mark that ranks fourth in the league. Their run defense is their most effective unit, surrendering only 89.0 yards per game and allowing just three rushing touchdowns, both of which are fifth-best in the NFL.
49ers tight end George Kittle posted a message on social media to celebrate the acquisition. The addition adds depth to a unit that has anchored the team's high standing this season.
The 49ers will face the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 8. The Raiders are currently on a four-game losing streak.
Source: CBS Sports
