Ranking the 49ers 5 most impressive players from 2020 playoffs

No. 2: Defensive Lineman DeForest Buckner

It’s no secret the 49ers’ deep and talented defensive line was probably their most important unit not only in the playoffs but throughout the regular season as well.

Consequently, it should come as no surprise the final two members of this list come from this group, starting with fourth-year defensive lineman and former first-round NFL Draft pick DeForest Buckner.

After a third season where he came into his own and set a personal record for sacks with 12, Buckner seemed primed again to be a force for the 49ers defense coming into the 2019 season. And while his counting stats, especially in the sack department, took a dip (although he did still manage 7.5 sacks this year), his overall impact on the team did not, especially in the playoffs.

Buckner finished his first foray in the playoffs with 2.5 sacks, nine total tackles, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

PFF also looked kindly on his play, grading him out at 88.8 overall, including 85.8 in pass rush, against the Vikings; 67.8 overall against the Packers; and 73.1 overall and 77.4 in pass rush in the Super Bowl against the vaunted Chiefs offense.

More importantly, PFF awarded him with 11 total pressures, one hit and seven hurries during the three games, indicating Buckner’s impact outside of statistics.

The 49ers brass will have a lot of decisions to make regarding longterm contracts and the resigning of free agents, but near the top of the list in terms of importance should be locking up Buckner, who as of right now will go into next year on his fifth-year option, which is worth $14.36 million, all of which counts against the cap.

Not only will extending Buckner help provide money to be spent elsewhere, but it will also ensure he’s part of this 49ers defense for years to come.

Given his performance this season and in the playoffs, he’s shown himself to be well worth it.