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ESPN proposes 49ers trade for Colts DT—but not the one you think

The 49ers could address their run defense with a trade for Colts DT Grover Stewart. ESPN's Bill Barnwell explains why San Francisco should make the move.

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 5:15 PM
ESPN proposes 49ers trade for Colts DT—but not the one you think
Key Things to Know
  • ESPN's Bill Barnwell proposed the 49ers acquire Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart instead of DeForest Buckner.
  • The hypothetical permanent trade would swap a 2027 sixth-round pick for Stewart and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
  • Barnwell argues Stewart would significantly improve San Francisco's run defense, which ranks 27th in success rate.
The Story in 60 Seconds

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell has proposed a trade scenario sending Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart to the San Francisco 49ers. Rather than pursuing a high-profile reunion with DeForest Buckner, Barnwell suggests San Francisco target Stewart to bolster defensive coordinator Raheem Morris' run defense ahead of the postseason.

The proposed permanent deal would see the 49ers send a 2027 sixth-round draft pick to Indianapolis in exchange for Stewart and a 2027 seventh-round pick. Barnwell argues that while Stewart is owed $8.2 million over the remainder of the season, his run-stopping ability addresses a key weakness for the undefeated 49ers.

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