In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the San Francisco 49ers have acquired edge rusher Bryce Huff from the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade for a mid-round draft pick. The deal, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, comes after Huff’s underwhelming stint with the Eagles and marks a significant addition to the 49ers’ defensive line as they aim to bolster their pass rush for the 2025 season.
A High-Profile Acquisition
Bryce Huff, who signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the Eagles in 2024, was once considered one of the top free agents on the market following a breakout 2023 season with the New York Jets, where he recorded a career-high 10 sacks and a league-leading 21.8% pressure rate. However, his tenure in Philadelphia was marred by injuries and limited playing time, culminating in his absence from team activities this spring and being inactive during the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX win.
The trade, which cannot be finalized until after June 1 due to salary cap implications, involves a restructured contract for Huff. Originally set to earn $16.75 million in fully guaranteed money for 2025, the Eagles will absorb $9.05 million of his salary, leaving the 49ers responsible for the remaining $7.95 million. This financial arrangement makes the deal a cost-effective move for San Francisco, who acquire a proven pass rusher at a reduced cost.
Reuniting with Robert Saleh
A key factor in this trade is Huff’s reunion with San Francisco defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who coached him during his time with the New York Jets. Under Saleh’s guidance in 2023, Huff achieved his best professional season, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with 68 pressures on 312 pass-rush snaps. The 49ers are banking on this familiarity to help Huff rediscover his form and provide a much-needed complement to All-Pro pass rusher Nick Bosa.
San Francisco’s defensive line has undergone significant changes this offseason, with the departure of veterans Javon Hargrave, Leonard Floyd, and Maliek Collins. The team has added young talent through the draft, including first-round pick Mykel Williams, but Huff’s acquisition adds a veteran presence with proven production. His addition could reshape the 49ers’ edge rusher rotation, potentially impacting players like Yetur Gross-Matos, who may become expendable with Huff’s arrival.
Impact on the 49ers’ Defense
Huff’s arrival bolsters a 49ers defensive unit that is looking to rebound from a disappointing 2024 campaign. The 27-year-old edge rusher brings athleticism and a knack for generating pressure, qualities that align perfectly with San Francisco’s aggressive defensive scheme. Paired with Bosa and rookie Mykel Williams, Huff could help form one of the league’s most formidable pass-rushing trios.
However, questions remain about Huff’s ability to contribute against the run, an area where he has historically struggled. The 49ers, who passed on pursuing Huff before the 2024 trade deadline, may see this as a low-risk, high-reward move given the reduced financial commitment and the mid-round pick they are sending to Philadelphia.
Eagles Moving On
For the Eagles, trading Huff represents a strategic decision to cut their losses after a disappointing season. Signed to replace Haason Reddick, Huff struggled to find a consistent role in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s scheme, missing five games due to wrist surgery and seeing limited snaps upon his return. With a deep edge rusher group that includes Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith, and rookie Jalyx Hunt, the Eagles were comfortable moving on from Huff, even if it meant absorbing a significant portion of his 2025 salary.
General manager Howie Roseman’s willingness to part with Huff underscores the Eagles’ confidence in their current defensive lineup, which led the NFL in 2024. The trade also provides Philadelphia with additional draft capital, likely one of the 49ers’ compensatory picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, to further build their roster.
What’s Next for the 49ers?
The acquisition of Bryce Huff signals the 49ers’ intent to go all-in for the 2025 season. Alongside recent high-profile extensions for George Kittle, Brock Purdy, and Fred Warner, this trade reflects San Francisco’s aggressive approach to building a championship-caliber roster. With Huff now in the fold, the 49ers’ defensive front has the potential to be a game-changer, provided he can stay healthy and adapt to his new role.
As the 49ers prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Huff integrates into the team and whether he can replicate his 2023 success. If he does, this trade could be remembered as one of the shrewdest moves of the offseason, giving San Francisco the edge they need to compete for a Super Bowl title.