He's back.

DeForest Buckner is returning to the San Francisco 49ers after they traded a 2027 fourth-round pick to the Indianapolis Colts, per ESPN's Adam Schefter .

Earlier today, the Seattle Seahawks acquired All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson from the Colts. The 49ers needed to respond to Seattle's move by going after Buckner.

Sure enough, they make it happen and instantly bolster their defensive line. This was a no-brainer trade for the 49ers to execute.

It's more than just matching the Seahawks' trade for Nelson, which is obviously great. But the 49ers were desperate for a premier player on the defensive line .

With Nick Bosa struggling to stay healthy this season, the 49ers' pass rush has looked like it's 2025 version. It's been nearly nonexistent.

They caught fire in Weeks 5 and 6, thanks to an amazing collective effort, but it isn't a sustainable formula. Having an elite player who can dominate and draw attention was the missing piece in their defense.

That is why the 49ers needed Bosa back so badly.…