49ers Acquire Keion White from Patriots to Strengthen Defense

The San Francisco 49ers have secured defensive reinforcements by trading with the New England Patriots for pass rusher Keion White. This strategic move comes as the 49ers contend with significant injuries on their defensive line, including the season-ending knee injury suffered by star edge rusher Nick Bosa in Week 3.

According to a source familiar with the trade, the 49ers will send a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Patriots in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round pick. The source requested anonymity, as the trade has not yet been officially announced. The team is seeking immediate assistance following a lackluster performance last week, where they recorded no sacks and only two quarterback hits in a loss to Houston. Currently, San Francisco ranks last in the NFL, with just five sacks over the last six games.

Addressing Defensive Challenges

With a record of 5-3 and positioned third in the NFC West, the 49ers are actively looking to bolster their defensive capabilities. The absence of Bosa is compounded by injuries to defensive ends Bryce Huff and Yetur Gross-Matos, both sidelined due to hamstring issues. The situation became more complex when Trevis Gipson was claimed off the practice squad by Carolina after participating in four games.

White, selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown potential but has not thrived under the current coaching staff led by Mike Vrabel. This season, he has started only one game and was a healthy scratch during last week’s victory against Cleveland. Despite an impressive start to the 2024 season, where he tallied four sacks in the first two games, his production has dwindled, with just one sack across his last 20 games and three quarterback pressures on 76 pass rush snaps this season, according to Pro Football Focus.

Potential for Growth

The addition of White brings versatility to the 49ers’ defensive line, as he is capable of playing both inside and outside positions. The coaching staff, particularly defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, is optimistic about maximizing White’s potential, drawing on his success with other players who have revived their careers in San Francisco.

White is currently in the final year of his rookie contract, and the 49ers are hopeful that this change in environment will allow him to regain his form and contribute significantly to their defensive efforts as they push for a playoff spot.