DeForest Buckner Informed Colts Brass He Wanted Trade Back To 49ers

More than 6 1/2 years ago, the 49ers made a seminal choice on their defensive line. Extension talks with DeForest Buckner had begun, but the team instead traded the All-Pro defensive tackle to the Colts for a first-round pick . Indianapolis ended up winning that trade. The 49ers chose the path that would allow them to pay Arik Armstead and Jimmie Ward , as Buckner’s second contract promised to be more expense. It was, but the Colts ended up paying it (four years, $84MM) and seeing the Oregon product anchor their defensive line.