Free agency’s kickoff rocked the 49ers’ world, the epicenter of which is their defensive line.
First, Arik Armstead avoided the franchise tag and signed a five-year contract. Then came the truly stunning news: fellow defensive tackle DeForest Buckner got traded for the Indianapolis Colts’ first-round draft pick.
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As other teams raided the market’s highest-quality items, the 49ers had recalibrated their defensive front, with a couple more deals on deck.
About 12 hours after the free agency negotiating window began, free safety Jimmie Ward agreed to return on a three-year deal.
They still have nearly a dozen of players who can leave as free agents, most notably wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders.