5 best moves of NFL free agency so far

SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 16: DeForest Buckner #99 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a sack of Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 16, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings is sacked by Arik Armstead #91 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

2. San Francisco 49ers keep Arik Armstead, trade DeForest Buckner

The San Francisco 49ers had a decision to make. They are absolutely loaded with talent on the defensive line, but they could realistically only pay Arik Armstead or DeForest Buckner.

Between the two former Oregon Ducks, 49ers general manager John Lynch chose the edge defender. He will pay out $85 million over five years to Armstead, and he traded Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts for a first-round pick.

The pick is exactly what Buckner is worth as one of the league’s best interior defenders, but Buckner will make $21 million a year – $4 million more per season than Armstead.

With the caveat that it’s more difficult for interior defenders to pick up better stats, the 49ers will pay Armstead less money than Buckner despite Armstead recording more sacks, QB hits, and tackles for loss than his former teammate. And the 49ers got a first-round pick to use on another future star, seeing as how they picked up one of the best defensive players in the NFL last year in Nick Bosa.

The trio of Bosa, Armstead, and Dee Ford will continue to destroy defenses next season, and it’s important not to underrate the impact Armstead makes. He is an elite player who is worth the money, as he makes a profound impact as a run defender and edge rusher. Armstead and Bosa are the cornerstones of this defense.

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