San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledges 49ers fans in the crowd while walking off the field after defeating the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.
Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
NFL observers seem to suggest the San Francisco 49ers need to pursue Maxx Crosby. And the Bears have been mentioned as a team that could use Khalil Mack. Both teams are targeting defensive line help at the trade deadline, including some surprises, according to a post on X by Jordan Schultz.
“I think we’re headed toward a very active trade deadline,” Schultz said. “We could see anywhere from 12 to 20 trades. And two teams I’m watching very closely: the 49ers and Bears. I’ve heard both teams connected to several defensive players. Including rushers Josh Sweat, Khalil Mack. Also, DeForest Buckner. Some names who aren’t necessarily on the trade block. I think both Chicago and San Francisco, they want to be aggressive. And I’d be shocked if they don’t make a move before the deadline.”
Will the 49ers make a splash trade?
Among the names mentioned as possible targets for the 49ers is Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. He showed a ton of potential as a rookie, but has fallen out of favor with the Jaguars. There are plusses and minuses with this player, according to 49erswebzone.com.
“For San Francisco, Thomas would offer another potential big-play threat and a long-term piece at a position where the team will eventually have to make some difficult decisions,” Marc Adams wrote. “Of course, the 49ers would need to determine whether his current struggles are a product of Jacksonville's offense, his own development, or some combination of the two.”
However, Buckner seems like the better fit. He’s frustrated with the Colts, according to NBC Sports.
“I’m sick and tired of the same song and dance every year,” Buckner said. “We lost to the Tennessee Titans, who were 0-5, and now they’re 1-5.
“Every single person on the team needs to be critics of themselves and figure out what we need to do better,” Buckner said.
There seems to be a fire inside of Buckner, and that would make him a plus for the 49ers. They’re seeking a Super Bowl run while the Colts (2-5) seem to be spinning their wheels — again — as Buckner said.