DeForest Buckner gives 49ers a defensive boost as Seahawks add Quenton Nelson

DeForest Buckner’s arrival gives the 6-1 San Francisco 49ers a major defensive addition as rival Seattle strengthens its offensive line with Quenton Nelson.

Key facts

• •The 49ers traded for Buckner during their Week 8 bye, adding to defensive coordinator Raheem Morris’s front after their first defeat of the season, a 29-20 loss at Atlanta.
• •Seattle acquired eight-time Pro Bowl guard Nelson from Indianapolis for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick, according to Niners Nation’s Kyle Posey. Nelson is on an expiring contract.
• •Buckner also is scheduled to become a free agent after this season. San Francisco takes on $7.944 million in salary this season, per Posey, making this a substantial investment in the team’s immediate push.

Why it matters

The rivalry now has a compelling new layer in the trenches: Seattle has added a decorated blocker, while San Francisco has reinforced the interior of its defense. Neither move settles the NFC West race, but both give these division rivals significant help for the games ahead.

For the 49ers, the next step is turning that addition into results. They return from the bye to host Las Vegas on Nov. 8, with a chance to rebound from their first loss.

The verdict: Buckner strengthens San Francisco’s hand in an NFC West race Seattle is investing in, too.