Overview
- The 49ers acquired Keion White from the Patriots in a 2026 late-round pick swap, with New England receiving a sixth-rounder and San Francisco getting White and a seventh, which multiple outlets say are conditional.
- GM John Lynch said the team targeted defensive-line help, citing White’s strong 2024 production and his performance against San Francisco, and noted he is under club control through next season.
- White said his reduced role in 2025 reflected a scheme shift under Mike Vrabel, adding he is most effective rushing from the interior after being used almost exclusively outside before he was a healthy scratch in Week 8.
- San Francisco, now 5–3 with All-Pros Nick Bosa and Fred Warner out for the season and QB Brock Purdy managing turf toe, views the move as immediate depth with upside.
- The 49ers also added Clelin Ferrell to the practice squad, and Lynch left open the possibility of further moves before the Nov. 4 trade deadline while stressing a desire to preserve draft capital.