The Colts traded defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the 49ers for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowler drafted by San Francisco at No. 7 overall in 2016, played for the Niners through 2019 before joining Indianapolis for the 2020 season. He returns to the team after five years away.
This season with the Colts, Buckner recorded 31 combined tackles, four sacks and three pass breakups. Over his 11-year career, he has 683 combined tackles including 101 for a loss, 75.5 sacks, 31 pass deflections, nine forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries and two touchdowns. He has started 153 of 158 games played, including all seven this year.
George Kittle celebrated the move on social media: "DEFOOOOO THE BOYS ARE BACK @DeForestBuckner @JuiceCheck42 @49ers."
Buckner joins a 49ers defense ranked fourth in total yards allowed per game at 299.3. The unit allows just 89.0 rushing yards per game, fifth-best in the league, and has allowed only three rushing touchdowns, tied for best.
The Colts sit at 2-5 and fired general manager Chris Ballard. The trade was one of two major moves Tuesday. Indianapolis also dealt offensive lineman Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks, acquiring three draft picks and clearing $17.7 million in salary cap space. Running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs could be involved in trades soon.
San Francisco enters at 6-1 atop the NFC West. The 49ers face the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 8. Las Vegas is on a four-game losing streak.