The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for the upcoming NFL Draft and with 11 picks at their disposal, they have the opportunity to strengthen their team in various areas. One position that they are looking to bolster is their pass rush, and it seems like they have their sights set on a reunion with a familiar face.
According to reports, the 49ers are considering making a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles in order to acquire a pass rusher who had the best year of his career under current 49ers defensive coordinator, Robert Saleh. This move could prove to be a game-changer for the 49ers and solidify their defense as one of the best in the league.
The pass rush is a crucial aspect of any successful football team, and the 49ers are well aware of this. With the departure of DeForest Buckner, who was traded to the Indianapolis Colts, the 49ers are in need of a dominant pass rusher to fill the void. And who better to fill that void than a player who has already proven himself under the guidance of Saleh?
The player in question is none other than Eagles defensive end, Brandon Graham. Graham, who has spent his entire 11-year career with the Eagles, had a career-best season in 2020 under Saleh’s tutelage. He recorded 8.5 sacks, 50 tackles, and 14 quarterback hits, earning himself a spot in the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career.
Graham’s impressive performance last season caught the attention of many teams, including the 49ers. And with the Eagles looking to rebuild their team, it is the perfect opportunity for the 49ers to make a move for the 32-year-old pass rusher.
But why would the 49ers want to trade for a player who is nearing the end of his career? The answer is simple – Graham’s experience and leadership could prove to be invaluable for the young 49ers defense. With players like Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead still developing, having a veteran presence like Graham could help take their game to the next level.
Moreover, Graham’s familiarity with Saleh’s defensive scheme would make for a smooth transition into the 49ers’ system. He already knows Saleh’s expectations and could easily fit into the team’s defensive strategy.
Of course, a trade for Graham would come at a cost for the 49ers. They would have to part ways with some of their draft picks, which they have been known to use wisely in the past. However, the potential benefits of having Graham on their team far outweigh the cost.
Not only would Graham bring a much-needed boost to the 49ers’ pass rush, but he would also bring a winning mentality. He was a key member of the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2017 and knows what it takes to be a champion. His experience and leadership could prove to be invaluable for the 49ers, who are looking to make another run at the Super Bowl.
In addition, Graham’s contract with the Eagles is set to expire after the 2021 season, making him a low-risk, high-reward option for the 49ers. If he performs well, the 49ers could potentially sign him to a new contract and solidify their pass rush for years to come.
In conclusion, the 49ers’ potential trade for Brandon Graham is a move that could greatly benefit the team. Not only would it reunite Graham with his former coach and bring a much-needed boost to the 49ers’ pass rush, but it could also provide the team with a veteran leader and a winning mentality. With the 49ers looking to make another run at the Super Bowl, this trade could be the missing piece that helps them achieve their goal.
