The San Francisco 49ers have acquired defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick, the teams announced Tuesday. To clear a spot on the 53-man roster, San Francisco released cornerback Jack Jones.
The move reunites Buckner with the franchise that selected him seventh overall in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Oregon. After four seasons in San Francisco—including a Super Bowl LIV appearance—the 49ers traded him to Indianapolis in 2020 for the 13th overall pick. Now 32 and in the final year of his contract, Buckner returns as a three-time Pro Bowl selection and former first-team All-Pro with 75.5 career sacks.
Buckner has remained productive in 2026, recording four sacks, 31 combined tackles, eight quarterback hits, and three passes defended through seven games for a Colts team that sits at 2-5. His addition addresses immediate needs on an injury-depleted 49ers defensive line that has dealt with absences from Nick Bosa (calf), Alfred Collins (patellar tendon), C.J. West, and others. San Francisco (6-1) is among the NFC’s top contenders and enters its Week 8 bye seeking to fortify its front for a Super Bowl push.
The transaction comes amid a broader fire sale in Indianapolis. Hours earlier, the Colts traded eight-time Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks. Indianapolis, which recently parted ways with general manager Chris Ballard, is prioritizing future draft capital as it appears headed toward another non-playoff season. The Colts will receive the 49ers’ 2027 fourth-rounder and have indicated they are absorbing a portion of Buckner’s remaining salary.
Jones, who signed a one-year deal with San Francisco in the offseason after time with New England, Las Vegas, and Miami, had seen limited snaps in 2026 and was not a starter. His release creates the necessary roster space for Buckner, whose return is viewed as a low-cost reinforcement for a contending team. The 49ers’ next game is scheduled for Nov. 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Buckner’s homecoming strengthens an already stout San Francisco defense while giving the Colts additional mid-round capital as they reset. With the Nov. 10 trade deadline approaching, further roster movement remains possible on both sides.
