49ers Restructure DeForest Buckner's Deal to Free Up $5.2 Million in Cap Space

The San Francisco 49ers have adjusted the contract of defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, generating $5.2 million in salary cap room for 2026. According to data from Spotrac, the organization converted $6.5 million of Buckner's traded salary into a signing bonus while attaching two void years to the agreement for future cap management.

Buckner, selected in the first round of the 2016 draft by San Francisco out of Oregon, returned to the franchise via trade during the 2026 season in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Across eight appearances split between the Indianapolis Colts and the 49ers this year, the 32-year-old defensive lineman has accumulated 32 tackles, four sacks, one fumble recovery, and three pass defenses.

Prior to his return to the Bay Area, Buckner spent several seasons with Indianapolis following a 2020 trade, where he signed notable extensions including a four-year, $84 million deal and a subsequent two-year, $46 million extension. This latest financial maneuver provides the 49ers with immediate roster flexibility as the season progresses.

• Converted $6.5 million of traded salary into a signing bonus
• Added two void years for salary cap relief
• Accumulated 32 tackles and four sacks over eight games in 2026