At 4-2, the San Francisco 49ers are atop the NFC West heading into Week 7, but are now down two stars for the rest of the season: Fred Warner and Nick Bosa.
As a result, the optimism around the strong start has waned a bit, as the ceiling for the 49ers team is unknown without their two biggest difference-makers on defense.
That has raised questions whether San Francisco will go in at the trade deadline and make moves, or stay pat and keep their draft capital to continue building the team in 2026.
Well, reports have surfaced that the 49ers have been looking for edge rusher help, which makes sense as they’ve struggled to generate pressure without Bosa. This week, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler listed several pass-rushers that the 49ers have or could consider as trade candidates, including Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson, Green Bay’s Rashan Gary, Miami’s Jaelan Phillips, Miami’s Bradley Chubb, New York’s Jermaine Johnson, New York’s Will McDonald IV, and Tennessee’s Arden Key.
Unfortunately, the top target whom they’ve called on seems to be off the market.
“Bengals All-Pro pass rusher Trey Hendrickson is drawing attention around the league, with the 49ers showing the most interest,” The Athletic’s Dianna Russini said. “Cincinnati isn’t shopping him, and after the Bengals’ Thursday night win, most do not expect him to get moved.”
San Francisco’s interest in Hendrickson shows they’re at least willing to make a splash move. While he may not be a realistic candidate anymore, there are still several other pass rushers that the 49ers could go after, including some familiar faces for either the team or defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
Looking at the list of candidates, the 49ers have a clear connection with the Miami Dolphins, who have actively been fielding calls on Phillips and Chubb, according to Russini. Given where Miami is in the season, it wouldn’t be a surprise if both players are moved by the deadline.
Jermaine Johnson and Will McDonald were picks under the previous regime, and both have played under Saleh. Johnson has been the better player when healthy, but San Francisco could call to see if the 0-6 Jets would want more draft capital.
Then, there’s Arden Key, whom former 49ers executive and former Titans general manager Ran Carthon suggested the 49ers could trade for earlier this week. Key may be the cheapest target to acquire on the list and has the inside-outside versatility for San Francisco.
According to Russini, there are several other teams that could be looking for a pass rusher or defensive line help. The Philadelphia Eagles were listed as one, which makes sense after Zadarius Smith retires. But, they also need cornerback help, which could trump the need at edge rusher.
Similarly, the Kansas City Chiefs are looking for defensive linemen, and they’ve shown a willingness to also be aggressive in the past. The Detroit Lions are also in the mix for an edge rusher, as they could go all-in by pairing a quality player with star Aidan Hutchinson.
Additionally, the Indianapolis Colts, Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Dallas Cowboys are also looking for defensive help.
So, the 49ers will have some competition for a pass-rusher. But, it seems they’re dedicated to checking out the market and finding an upgrade.
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