The Indianapolis Colts are drawing attention as questions swirl about whether they will trade defensive tackle DeForest Buckner after dealing All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers are expected to explore options for strengthening their defensive line ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline.
CBS Sports' Zachary Pereles recently examined several potential trades and suggested a target for the 49ers. It's not Buckner, though.
Instead, he suggests Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne, the 13th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
"The 49ers rank 29th in percentage of opponent plays that go for zero or negative yards," Pereles explained. "Enter the stout Payne, who not only remains a solid player himself, but would free things up for offseason acquisition Osa Odighizuwa on the interior."
Payne might not be the splashiest addition for a 49ers team looking to maintain its lead in the NFC West while navigating several injury setbacks. However, Pereles believes he could boost San Francisco's defensive front.
Payne has one double-digit sack season on his resume, recording 11.5 sacks in 2022, but he hasn't exceeded four sacks in a season since then and has recorded just one through six games this year. The Commanders defensive tackle earned his only Pro Bowl selection in 2022.
"Payne's counting numbers aren't anything special, but he ranks 21st in PFF's run defense grade among 136 interior defensive linemen," Pereles added.
Payne's 67.9 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus is his highest mark in the past six seasons and the third-highest of his career.
Although the numbers aren't spectacular, Payne could be a relatively affordable option for the 49ers. San Francisco also hopes to get reinforcements as injured players work to return in the coming weeks.
"Payne is in the final year of his deal, and Commanders GM Adam Peters used to be in San Francisco's front office. There's a deal to be made here," Pereles concluded.
More info on: DeForest Buckner, Osa Odighizuwa
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