The San Francisco 49ers have already made moves to shore up their defensive line this offseason, but after finishing dead last in sacks in 2025, it’s clear they need more firepower—whether on the interior or the edge. Enter a familiar face: Arik Armstead.

According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the 49ers are being named as a potential trade suitor for the Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman, who has racked up 41 sacks over his 11-year NFL career. Armstead spent nine of those seasons in San Francisco before heading to Jacksonville in 2024, and a reunion could be exactly what the 49ers need to revitalize their pass rush.

However, any trade likely won’t happen until after June 1. The reason? Cap space. The Jaguars would save $14.5 million by dealing Armstead after that date, compared to just $2.3 million if they trade him before. At 43 years old (as of the upcoming season), Armstead is still productive—he posted 5.5 sacks last year—but Jacksonville may be looking to get younger and cheaper. A post-June 1 trade makes financial sense for both sides.

For the 49ers, adding Armstead wouldn’t break the bank in terms of trade capital, and it would bring back a proven leader who knows the system. They could also explore other options, like pairing Joey Bosa with his brother Nick, but Armstead offers a cost-effective solution to a glaring weakness. The Jaguars get cap relief and draft picks; the 49ers get a veteran with 5.5 sacks last season and a history of success in the Bay Area. It’s a move that just makes sense.

With the 2026 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, waiting until June 1 is the logical play. The $12.2 million difference in cap savings for Jacksonville makes it a no-brainer, and for the 49ers, it could be the missing piece to turn their defense around.