Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is headed back to the San Francisco 49ers.
Buckner will return to his original team in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick, according to The Athletic's Jonathan Jones.
Quenton Nelson trade grades: Who won blockbuster Seahawks-Colts deal?
Obviously, this is a huge move for the 49ers, as the team desperately needed more pop up front. Getting defensive end Nick Bosa back and getting Buckner back after all these years in a trade should stand for San Francisco as a huge boost.
What do we have to make for this deal? Did Indianapolis get enough back? Lets throw out some trades.
The Colts continue to make moves, sending DT DeForest Buckner back to the San Francisco 49ers, sources tell @TheAthletic. It's
a 2027 fourth rounder heading to Indy in exchange for Buckner, San Francisco's 2016 first-round pick.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) October 27, 2026
49ers grade
With C.J. West and Alfred Collins both on injured reserve, the 49ers needed more punch to their defensive line. Getting Bosa back is massive, but adding the versatile Buckner back into the fold is nearly as impressive. Buckner knows the scheme in San Francsico well from his days as a 49er. The homecoming should bring out the best in the veteran defensive lineman, who gives defensive coordinator Raheem Morris a fun chess piece along the defensive line. The team struggled to get pressure on the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, hinting that this unit really does need added help to fully aspire to its Super Bowl expectations. Buckner returning for a fourth-round draft pick is just good business this time of year. It's hard to hate this for the 49ers. In a boom-or-bust year, push all the chips in.
GRADE: A+
Colts grade
The Colts trading a clearly unhappy player in Buckner and getting a fourth-rounder back for this upcoming spring is smart. Trading Nelson and Buckner away in the same day is a massive tell that the team is punting on its 2026 chances. However, getting valuable resources for the future for veterans on expiring contracts is never a bad idea, especially if you really think you're ceiling is low for the season you're currently in. Hats off to Indy for getting this done. We like the return and that Buckner gets to play elsewhere as the Colts continue to struggle.
GRADE: A
This article originally appeared on For The Win: DeForest Buckner trade grades: Who won 49ers-Colts deal?
