Would the San Francisco 49ers love to land All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett via trade? Absolutely. Can they? Well…
That's more complicated.
Nothing is impossible, though. The 49ers have been aggressive in the trade market before, making blockbuster moves for players like offensive tackle Trent Williams and running back Christian McCaffrey. While their boldness has sometimes paid off—and sometimes not (see: Trey Lance)—much of that flexibility stemmed from having quarterback Brock Purdy on a cost-effective rookie contract, which gave them valuable salary cap relief over the past three years.
Longtime ESPN writer Bill Barnwell recently explored the best potential trade fits for Garrett. While he lists San Francisco's chances as "unlikely," Barnwell isn't ready to dismiss the possibility entirely, calling it "plausible."
Still, past moves and the 49ers' current financial commitments could complicate such a deal.
"They already had a massive investment at one edge rusher spot in Nick Bosa, but general manager John Lynch has spent heavily in free agency recently to add Javon Hargrave, Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos, who combine to make $40 million per year," Barnell explained. "In a universe where Garrett comes available earlier, the 49ers could have theoretically spent less at defensive tackle and shelled out future picks to add Garrett to what was already a championship-caliber core."
Another significant factor is Purdy's looming contract extension. The young quarterback is expected to secure a massive deal, making him the highest-paid player in franchise history—and possibly one of the highest-paid in the NFL. Some still believe Purdy could command the biggest contract in the league.
Tough decisions lie ahead for San Francisco.
"Purdy is about to get a massive raise, though, and that limits a lot of San Francisco's flexibility. The 49ers are already about to cut Hargrave and will either cut or trade Deebo Samuel," Barnell continued. "They might not be able to bring back free agents Charvarius Ward and Dre Greenlaw. And with all of the money they've invested in Bosa, it's tough to see them committing even more to a second edge rusher."
Barnwell concluded: "Still, they have also shown that if they truly believe they can add a transcendent player, they'll do whatever they can to make it work."