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NFL45 min ago

Buckner Back With 49ers for Super Bowl Push

The defensive tackle returns to San Francisco after a midseason trade, joining familiar teammates in pursuit of an unfinished goal.

By OddsListing wire desk

· 2 min read

Written with AI assistance from published news reports and checked against them by an automated fact-check. How we use AI

Buckner Back With 49ers for Super Bowl Push
On this page3 sections
  1. Trade Brings Buckner Home
  2. Core Group Shares Unfinished Business
  3. Defensive Line Receives Immediate Boost

Trade Brings Buckner Home

After waiting for a call during a difficult stretch with the Colts, DeForest Buckner was sent to the 49ers on Oct. 27 in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. The move reunited him with the team that selected him in 2016. Buckner had made clear he wanted no other destination, and the deal allowed him to resume chasing championships in the Bay Area.

Core Group Shares Unfinished Business

Seven players from the roster that reached Super Bowl LIV remain, now including Buckner. That group, featuring Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, George Kittle, Kyle Juszczyk, Deebo Samuel Sr. and Dre Greenlaw, pushed for the return. Their shared history from the 2020 loss continues to drive efforts to claim the franchise's sixth Lombardi Trophy.

Defensive Line Receives Immediate Boost

The addition addresses needs created by earlier injuries. Buckner enters with 4.0 sacks this season and ranks among players with at least 75 career sacks and 25 batted passes. His presence alongside Osa Odighizuwa should improve a pass rush that generates pressure on just 23 percent of dropbacks when rushing four. Bosa is also expected back soon after missing five games. Buckner will wear No. 99 and line up 2,471 days after his last game with San Francisco.

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