"For years, the 49ers invested in their defensive line with the likes of Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner and Javon Kinlaw," Edwards explained. "San Francisco took some shots on Day 2 [this] year, but is still looking for long-term solutions on that front."
San Francisco drafted two defensive tackles this year—Alfred Collins in the second round and CJ West in the fourth. The 49ers also used their first-round pick on versatile defensive lineman Mykel Williams, who can line up both inside and outside.
Washington (6-3, 330) has recorded 29 tackles (four for loss), 1.5 sacks, and six passes defensed this season, his first as a full-time starter. He earned a 77.5 defensive grade and a 79.8 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus, both career bests.
"The hope is that Washington, a young, ascending player, would be a mainstay on a defense that has gotten a jolt from the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator," Edwards added.