The San Francisco 49ers have spent the last month re-signing key players like wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and All-Pro tackle Trent Williams.
Could general manager John Lynch, head coach Kyle Shanahan, and others still be considering a trade?
According to Over the Cap, the Niners presently have the second most open cap space in the NFL, with more than $46.3 million. San Francisco recently revised wideout Deebo Samuel’s deal, resulting in an additional $16.4 million. It’s logical to ask if a substantial move is on the way.
Meanwhile, in the AFC, New York Jets pass rusher Haason Reddick asked for a trade on August 12. The Jets have not honoured that request, nor have they granted him the contract extension he demands.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report compiled a list of “10 top trade targets” who are most likely to be traded entering Week 1 of the regular season. Reddick was ranked first on that list, and Knox identified the 49ers as a high trade fit for the 2022 All-Pro edge.
Edge Haason Reddick’s top trade partners are the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Cardinals.
In addition to the Niners, Knox believes the Arizona Cardinals would be an appropriate trade partner for Reddick.
“Almost any club in need of pass-rushing help should be interested, though his desire for a raise could be a deciding factor. Knox stated, “It shouldn’t be an issue for the Cardinals, who have $25.7 million in cap space available.”
“The 49ers might also want to test Reddick. San Francisco could have huge cap concerns in 2025, when quarterback Brock Purdy is due for an extension, but it now has $46.4 million in cap room.”
There are also recent injuries on San Francisco’s defensive line to consider.
“San Francisco is also firmly in the Super Bowl window and may require further depth in its pass-rushing rotation. “Offseason acquisitions Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos have both been dealing with knee injuries,” Knox said.
Reddick, who is 6-foot-1 and weighs 240 pounds, turns 30 on September 22. It’s conceivable that his age is influencing current contract discussions. The Niners signed Floyd, 32, this summer to bolster their pass rush. Adding Reddick would be a tremendous move that would immediately provide San Francisco’s offensive line a significant boost by providing a somewhat younger — and far superior — option.
What Reddick Could Bring to the Table in San Francisco
Reddick has 27 sacks, 49 quarterback hits, 135 pressures, and 87 tackles (24 for loss) in the previous two seasons with the Eagles. He was selected for the Pro Bowl both years. The Jets acquired him with one year remaining on his three-year, $45 million contract inked with the Eagles in 2022.
As things stand, it’s fair to call Reddick dissatisfied. In 2024, he’ll be paid a non-guaranteed salary of $14.25. The Jets defensive end is the only remaining holdout in the NFL. He has already been penalized more than $2 million for refusing to pay, and he shows no signs of changing his mind.
Combining a player with his strength and burst off the edge with two-time All-Pro Nick Bosa would give the 49ers probably the most terrifying pass rushing tandem in the NFL. The Niners would have to be willing to pay him, but they could certainly work out an extension.
Ironically, the 49ers and Jets will square off in Week 1. Maybe Lynch can obtain some information on Reddick then? Stay tuned.
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