The San Francisco 49ers could use help off the edge, and a former first-round pick may be on the market.
NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks identified Jets 2023 first-round edge rusher Will McDonald IV as a possible trade candidate who could use a change of scenery and could help fortify a contending team's defense.
The former first-rounder’s snaps have been reduced with No. 2 overall pick David Bailey coming on board as the team’s new designated pass rusher. With the rookie stepping in as the featured playmaker on the front line, McDonald has been relegated to a complementary role that could make him an enticing option on the trade market. The 6-4, 245-pounder has flashed disruptive potential with 23.5 career sacks and four forced fumbles in 54 games, but
a surplus of pass rushers on the roster could prompt GM Darren Mougey to trade him away for draft capital to help in the rebuild. Although such a move might lead to some quizzical looks, the desire to stockpile the war chest with picks could make it sensible enough for the Jets’ decision-makers to pull the trigger.
San Francisco’s edge group remains underwhelming as the team waits for Nick Bosa to return. He has played in just two games and has missed the last five, dating back to Week 3, due to a calf injury. General manager John Lynch said Tuesday on KNBR that Bosa is “tracking well” to return after the bye week. Bosa has yet to record a sack this season.
In his absence, Keion White has led the way with 3.5 sacks. Rookie Romello Height has 1.5, while 2025 first-rounder Mykel Williams and Ogbonnia Okoronkwo have one each. Williams has been limited in recent practices as he continues to work back from a 2025 ACL injury.
The interior of the defensive line has been solid, though. Rookie Gracen Halton and Osa Odighizuwa have two sacks each, and DeForest Buckner is now in the mix after the recent trade.
Even with Bosa’s expected return, adding another pass rusher could give the 49ers more depth and insurance if his calf becomes an issue again. The trade deadline is Nov. 10.
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: NFL trade deadline: 49ers could be fit for 2023 1st-round edge rusher
