The pool of edge rush options for the 49ers at the trade deadline has decreased slightly.
After landing Keion White last week, it is widely expected the 49ers will strike another trade on the defensive
line, a possibility increased by the injury suffered to Mykel Williams in Sunday’s win over the New York Giants.
Yet it will not be Jaelan Phillips bolstering the 49ers’ depleted front.
The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported on Monday that the Philadelphia Eagles had agreed to a trade with the Miami Dolphins to acquire 2021 first-round pick Phillips.
Phillips heads to the defending Super Bowl champions in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.
Russini added that the 49ers, along with the New England Patriots, were one of the other teams to have discussed a deal with the Dolphins.
Given Phillips’ issues staying on the field in recent years, the 49ers might not be too disappointed at missing out on a trade for his services, and there are still several potential targets who could be available ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline.
The New York Jets boast a stable of pass rushers who would likely jump at the chance to work with Robert Saleh again, while the Cincinnati Bengals are, per Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer, softening in their stance regarding a possible trade of star defensive end Trey Hendrickson.
Teams calling about Hendrickson are no longer receiving a flat no from the Bengals. Cincinnati falling to 3-6 on Sunday will only help the 49ers’ hopes of that deal getting done.
Other Dolphins pass rushers such as Bradley Chubb and Matthew Judon could also be in the mix for an edge rusher trade, which has become an even more urgent need in the wake of the Williams injury. San Francisco had a strong pass rush performance in Week 9, but a trade remains a must to ensure their front is more consistent down the stretch.
