Armstead, who joined KNBR on Thursday, says he didn't have a clue that, as his contract extension with the 49ers was being finalized, a deal was nearly complete to break up the pair. San Francisco couldn't afford to keep both, with Buckner due to receive a massive contract extension.
Two days after Armstead, who was about to become a free agent, agreed to a five-year deal worth up to $85 million to remain with the Niners, Buckner was shipped to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for the No. 13 overall pick. Buckner received his payday from the Colts, signing a four-year, $84 million contract extension and becoming the second-highest-paid defensive tackle in the game.
"I didn't have any knowledge of it, so I kind of signed, and then I heard of that," Armstead told Greg Papa and John Lund. "It was a shock to me."
Armstead revealed that the unexpected news left him confused. He thought the two would be playing together in 2020, and possibly for the foreseeable future. At the same time, Armstead is excited about the opportunity his friend will have with the Colts.
"I know he's going to do amazing things out there with the Colts," he added, "and be a big boost for their organization. I'm super happy for him."
Armstead's versatility could make him an option to help mitigate the loss of Buckner. The team has other options like D.J. Jones, too, and could even draft a replacement in a couple of weeks.
"It's a huge loss," Armstead continued. "He's an irreplaceable player. I haven't talked to the coaches about their thoughts and plans this coming up year. Last year, I played base end. ... I'm comfortable in that role, and that's what I've had success at. I don't know about changing it too much."
You can listen to the entire conversation with Armstead below, which includes information on the great work he is doing to help Sacramento-area restaurants amid the coronavirus pandemic.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Insider makes the case for A.J. Brown-to-49ers trade scenario
The San Francisco 49ers appear set at wide receiver after revamping the position group this offseason. The team moved on from Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne but added veteran receivers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk. San Francisco also continued to strengthen the unit... -
49ers named among NFL's most complete teams entering 2026 season
The San Francisco 49ers worked aggressively this offseason to strengthen their roster and keep pace with the Los Angeles Rams and reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks in the NFC West. That effort included revamping the wide receiver room and improving a pass rush that... -
49ers predicted to participate in Thanksgiving triple-header
Once again, the NFL is expected to deliver an enticing Thanksgiving Day slate featuring three marquee matchups. The San Francisco 49ers last played on the holiday in 2023, when they defeated the Seattle Seahawks 31-13 at Lumen Field. With the 2026 NFL schedule set to be... -
Former 49ers safety urges position change for 4th-round draft pick
The San Francisco 49ers appear to have strengthened their secondary with the selection of former Washington and Arizona cornerback Ephesians Prysock in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. At just over 6-foot-3 with a 6-foot-8½ wingspan, Prysock brings rare size to...