For the most part, the San Francisco 49ers have their defensive starters penciled in, as well as the bulk of primary backups and reserves.
But they'd certainly consider a would-be reunion with now-Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Arik Armstead.
Armstead, who left the Niners as a cap casualty in 2024, is again facing a similar situation in Northern Florida, and the Jags may look at parting ways with the veteran to help salvage their precarious salary-cap situation.
As Bleacher Report's Alex Kay pointed out, it's actually a bit of a shocker Jacksonville hasn't gone this route yet, but it doesn't mean Armstead will stay put for long:
With June 1 now in the rear-view, it's relatively surprising that Arik Armstead is still on the Jacksonville Jaguars' roster.
Armstead is one of the more obvious potential salary cap casualties in the NFL right now. With the cash-strapped Jaguars lacking cap room and Armstead having no guaranteed money left on his contract, the team could clear up nearly $15 million (and only incur a shade under $5 million in dead money) by releasing the veteran defensive lineman.
While Armstead was a quality contributor to the NFL's top rushing defense last year and recorded 5.5 sacks—his highest total since 2021—he's set to enter an age-33 season and could be due for a sharp regression. Jacksonville also traded for Ruke Orhorhoro this offseason and could slot him into Armstead's spot in the lineup.
Indeed, the Jaguars have just $9.7 million in cap space right now, per Over the Cap, meaning such a roster move could easily take place in the near future.
Should it, San Francisco would have to express interest.
49ers should pounce on Arik Armstead if Jaguars release him
True, the 49ers already made several defensive line moves over the last two years—Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, C.J. West, Gracen Halton and Romello Height—so signing someone like Armstead would appear to be a bit excessive.
However, assuming Armstead would entertain a reunion with the team that drafted him in Round 1 back in 2015, the Niners may look in his direction for two key purposes:
- A veteran presence on a primarily young defensive line
- A rotational edge setter on base downs who can move inside on passing situations
At his age, Armstead may not be viewed as an every-down player. But, it's important to acknowledge Williams is still recovering from last year's torn ACL and may miss a few weeks into the regular season, opening up the door for someone like Armstead to play a more prominent role.
Plus, the veteran's experience could do wonders for many of the first- and second-year pros who are now being tasked with handling the Niners' primary D-line duties.
If both sides are willing, it'd make plenty of sense. The Jags just need to do their part first.
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