Field Yates posted a curious tweet on Friday. San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle DeForest Buckner's fifth-year option value was adjusted from $14.36 million to $12.378 million. The former being the value for a defensive end while the latter being the value for a defensive tackle.
It was an odd report because there is no reasoning explained why Buckner, who primarily plays defensive tackle, would have ever been considered a defensive end when considering his fifth-year option value. Buckner played along the interior of the defensive line during both the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
49ers DL DeForest Buckner had his fifth-year option value adjusted from $14.36M (DE value) to 12.378M (DT value). A distinction that could be pertinent in extension talks and would be relevant in the event Buckner is a tag candidate next year absent an extension.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 13, 2020
San Francisco is reportedly working on an extension for Buckner, who is preparing to play in his fifth NFL season.
It was reported by John Middlekauff last month that Buckner had turned down an offer from the 49ers that included $60 million in guaranteed money. The defensive tackle shot down that report, indicating that it was false.
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"When did we start believing everything on the internet?" Buckner posted.
Yates does note that the change could be pertinent in extension talks and could impact the decision whether or not to use the franchise tag on the Pro Bowl defender next year, assuming the 49ers can't reach an extension agreement before then.
Buckner racked up 62 tackles with 7.5 sacks, two passes defensed, and two forced fumbles this past season. He has 19.5 sacks over the past two seasons, not including the 2.5 he added during these past playoffs.