Defensive lineman Arik Armstead would like to return to the San Francisco 49ers next season, even if that means doing so under the franchise tag. So he didn't take too kindly to a reporter, Grant Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat, suggesting that the 49ers' money would be better spent elsewhere.
Cohn suggested on Wednesday that the 49ers pursue Seattle Seahawks defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, who is scheduled to become a free agent in March, rather than re-sign Armstead.
If Arik Armstead and Jadeveon Clowney cost the same, the 49ers should sign Clowney. Imagine him next to Bosa, Buckner and Ford.
— Iggy (@grantcohn) February 6, 2020
Armstead racked up a team-leading 10 sacks last season and added two more during the playoffs while playing on his fifth-year option. He hopes to cash in this offseason, and the often undervalued Sacramento native has made it clear that staying in the Bay Area is his preference.
Armstead didn't hold back any of his punches as he criticized Cohn's statement on Wednesday night.
If you knew football and how to build a team you'd work in the front office of a NFL team instead of whatever you call yourself. Imagine that https://t.co/hjy9OFTNqe
— Arik Armstead (@arikarmstead) February 6, 2020
Ouch.
"I would love being here," Armstead said on Wednesday. "Trying to go back to the Super Bowl, so however that is seen or has to get done, it's not really my decision what they want to do with me."
Armstead added that he would wait to see whether or not the 49ers decide to use the franchise tag on him. The defensive lineman will consider his options once San Francisco makes its intentions clearer.
H/t to Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area for the find.