49ers Pursue Multiple Defensive Trades Amid Injury Challenges

The San Francisco 49ers have faced a challenging 2024 NFL season with numerous injuries, including the significant loss of star linebacker Fred Warner, who is out for the season due to a severe ankle injury. To bolster their linebacker depth, the 49ers re-signed undrafted rookie Stone Blanton to their practice squad. Despite these setbacks, the team, led by backup quarterback Mac Jones and coach Kyle Shanahan, has maintained a strong 5-2 record, dominating the NFC West. Looking ahead to the trade deadline, the 49ers are expected to be very active, with interest in several players, particularly at the linebacker and edge rusher positions, including targets such as Trey Hendrickson and Jaelan Phillips, the latter being a promising edge rusher from the Miami Dolphins who could be available due to the Dolphins' rebuilding phase. The team is also exploring opportunities to acquire other defensive players like Derek Barnett and Jake Hansen from the Houston Texans to compensate for Nick Bosa's injury. Overall, the 49ers are strategically addressing their roster challenges by combining internal depth signings and potential trades to sustain their playoff aspirations.