The NFL trade deadline coincides with this year's presidential election, both set for November 5. In a Wednesday morning interview with Bay Area radio station KNBR, San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch emphasized that no deals were imminent. However, with six days remaining, there's still a chance something could materialize.
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ESPN recently examined the trade landscape. Looking at the 49ers specifically, Jeremy Fowler suggested that the team might look to bolster its defensive line. In a trade discussion with colleague Dan Graziano, he noted that a reunion with former 49ers DeForest Buckner or D.J. Jones would be logical. Graziano agreed but indicated that he doesn't believe the Indianapolis Colts or Denver Broncos are interested in trading either player at this time.
However, Graziano proposed another potential target on the defensive line for the 49ers.
"If the Niners are looking to add up front on defense, the more likely trade candidate might be New England's Davon Godchaux, since the Patriots seem to be moving guys who they've recently extended," Graziano wrote. "Godchaux has a $4 million guaranteed salary next year. But the Niners are all-in, and I expect them to look for help on defense, where they haven't looked like themselves all season."
The 49ers have been dealing with injuries throughout their roster, including the defensive line. The loss of defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to a triceps injury was a significant blow. There's an outside chance he could return if the team makes a deep playoff run. Like Hargrave, defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos is also on injured reserve, though he's expected to return sooner from his knee injury.
According to Pro Football Reference, San Francisco's defense has posted a 23.5% pressure rate, ranking 14th in the NFL. They've accumulated 20 sacks, tying them for 12th in the league. The team would prefer to climb higher on both lists.
While Godchaux isn't known for his pass-rushing abilities, his addition could improve depth along the interior, helping outside pass rushers be more effective. Additionally, he would likely come at a much lower cost than a high-profile defensive lineman.
"The 49ers are in a tricky spot, because they have some important decisions to make on some big contracts in the coming offseason," Graziano continued. "But you can't get closer to winning the Super Bowl without prevailing than they did in February, and they feel as if they owe it to the group they have to give it their best possible shot."
