Earlier this week, Kyle Shanahan identified DeForest Buckner as a player he wanted to be a 49er for many years. The franchise appears to be intent on exploring how to make that happen soon.
Buckner becomes extension-eligible after this season, and the standout defensive tackle said his representatives plan to meet with the 49ers this coming offseason, per Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle (on Twitter). Connecting the dots points to early extension discussions.
Represented by Joel Segal and Charlie Fields, Buckner said (via Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News, Twitter link) he and his agents have discussed offseason strategy in recent weeks. Despite narrowly missing the NFC’s Pro Bowl roster, Buckner has been one of the NFL’s best interior defenders this season and would be in line to command a top-market deal.
While Buckner becomes eligible to sign a new deal soon, the 49ers can control him on his rookie contract through the 2020 season. That non-decision decision is due in May. Buckner has 11 sacks — already the most by a 49ers inside defender since Dana Stubblefield 20 years ago — and does not turn 25 until next year. The top non-Aaron Donald defensive tackle price will be within reach.
Considering Donald’s recently agreed-to extension is worth $22.5MM per year and the next-highest-paid inside lineman is Fletcher Cox at $17.1MM AAV, there will be some gap-bridging for these sides to do. But some preliminary talks are likely about to commence.
Fletcher cox sucks
Hot take
He deserves every penny. Hope they can get a deal done quick and not waste time
You never hear anything negative about the guy, he just flies under the radar doing a terrific job week after week. Coaches love blue collar guys like Buckner because they provide that kind of leadership needed to win.