Former NFL scout, NFL insider, podcast host, and contributor at The Athletic, John Middlekauff, said this week that defensive tackle DeForest Buckner turned down an offer by the San Francisco 49ers last year that included $60 million in guaranteed money. That led many to wonder how much he seeks to earn from a new deal.
Soon after the report, Buckner indicated that wasn't the case, asking via an Instagram comment, "When did we start believing everything on the internet?"
There have been whispers that Buckner's camp has turned down early offers by the 49ers, but that is normal in any negotiation process, and no terms were known until Middlekauff reported the estimated amount of guaranteed money this week. Of course, Buckner is clearly indicating that the report is false.
Buckner is entering his fifth NFL season and is currently scheduled to play under the fifth-year option of his rookie deal. Signing him to an extension remains a goal for the 49ers.
The Pro Bowl defensive tackle racked up 62 tackles with 7.5 sacks, two passes defensed, and two forced fumbles this past season. Buckner has 19.5 sacks over the past two seasons, not including the 2.5 he added during the playoffs this past season.
H/t to @gonzo7v on Twitter and @TheSFNiners on Instagram.