The San Francisco 49ers are actively looking to strengthen their defense ahead of the upcoming NFL trade deadline on Tuesday at 1 p.m. PT. Reports indicate that the team has expressed interest in Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips and has also contacted the Cincinnati Bengals regarding potential trades for several key defensive players, including linebacker Logan Wilson, cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, and defensive end Trey Hendrickson.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, other teams such as the Los Angeles Rams, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, and Philadelphia Eagles have also inquired about the availability of Wilson, Taylor-Britt, and Hendrickson. Despite the Bengals’ current 3-5 record as they prepare to face the Chicago Bears in Week 9, there is a general belief among inquiring teams that Cincinnati is unlikely to part with any of its core players.
Hendrickson stands out as a primary target ahead of the trade deadline. The 30-year-old defensive end is a four-time Pro Bowler and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 2024. Overall, he has amassed 81 career sacks throughout his eight and a half seasons with the New Orleans Saints and Bengals. Although Hendrickson sought a long-term extension with Cincinnati earlier this year, he ended up signing a revised one-year contract worth $29 million, making him an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. With star edge rusher Nick Bosa sidelined for the remainder of the year, Hendrickson could be an ideal short-term replacement if the 49ers meet Cincinnati’s asking price.
Wilson would also be a valuable addition to San Francisco’s linebacker corps, which has already faced significant challenges due to offseason losses and multiple injuries. In his five and a half seasons with the Bengals, Wilson has tallied 541 total tackles and 5.5 sacks, alongside 11 interceptions and six forced fumbles since being drafted in the third round in 2020.
Meanwhile, cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, who has played in six of the Bengals’ eight games this season, could provide additional depth to the 49ers’ secondary. Although he has not recorded any takeaways this season, he started all 17 regular-season games in 2023 and made an impact with four interceptions in 2023.
With a current record of 5-3, the 49ers are looking to build momentum as they approach an important road game against the New York Giants. General manager John Lynch may need to consider making strategic trades to reinforce the roster for a promising stretch run. While the Bengals seem hesitant to make any changes for now, a disappointing loss against the Bears could potentially shift their strategy moving forward.