The San Francisco 49ers chose a cautious approach during the recent NFL trade deadline, opting not to engage in the New York Jets fire sale or pursue other prominent players to address their injury challenges.
As the team concluded their practice sessions this week, there was no immediate solution in sight to bolster the roster. The only anticipated return is that of defensive end Bryce Huff, who is recovering from a hamstring strain, along with fellow lineman Keion White, acquired just ahead of the trade deadline.
Here are ten insights regarding the deadline”s implications for the 49ers:
- The 49ers had already made a trade last week for White, and earlier in the season acquired running back Brian Robinson and wide receiver Skyy Moore. Additionally, five months ago, they brought in Huff.
- None of these trades required more than a Day 3 draft pick, which diminished general manager John Lynch“s draft capital.
- Despite recent trades, the 49ers still retain their first, second, and third-round draft picks to support their youth movement this season.
- While key players like Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams are recovering from ACL injuries, the team continues to rely on defensive ends including Huff, White, Sam Okuayinonu, Robert Beal Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and William Bradley-King, with the latter two currently on the practice squad.
- The 49ers made a point to avoid adding injury-prone veterans during March”s free agency, maintaining that strategy through this week”s deadline. The Jets” Jermaine Johnson (recovering from an Achilles injury) and the Dolphins” Bradley Chubb (dealing with ACL injuries) remained with their respective teams.
- Defensive end Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals might have been a tempting option, given his performance, though he has been battling a hip injury and would have required a significant investment.
- Another notable move was Jaelan Phillips transitioning from the Dolphins to the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles for a third-round pick. Phillips was involved in the play that led to Jimmy Garoppolo“s foot injury last season, which catalyzed Brock Purdy“s rise.
- Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams was a target for the 49ers prior to their selection of Bosa in the 2019 draft. On Tuesday, he was traded to the Cowboys for substantial compensation, including future first-round picks.
- The Jets also made a headline-grabbing move, trading cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Colts, who are competing for the top spot in the AFC after investing in former 49ers starter Charvarius Ward. Ward has been sidelined due to a concussion.
- This trade for Gardner involved significant assets, including two first-round picks and wide receiver AD Mitchell, indicative of a team gearing up for a Super Bowl run, similar to the Eagles” strategy.
As the 49ers prepare for the remainder of the season, they remain steadfast in their commitment to their current roster, looking to leverage their depth while keeping an eye on future opportunities.
