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DeForest Buckner ‘felt the love’ in 49ers return — they need him more than ever
DeForest Buckner received a loud welcome back to San Francisco as he started for the 49ers against the Raiders, nearly seven years after leaving the team. The reunion mattered both emotionally and on the field: the 49ers won 38-17, and Buckner and Nick Bosa are now playing together again as the team faces a late-season loss in its defensive line.
Buckner, 32, returned from Indianapolis in exchange for a fourth-round pick and was introduced last among the defensive starters, drawing a louder cheer than Fred Warner or Bosa. He and Bosa combined for two tackles, while the 49ers forced five second-half turnovers and held the Raiders to 1.4 yards per carry on 16 attempts; they still have not recorded a sack in two weeks. Rookie defensive tackle Gracen Halton is expected to miss the rest of the season with a broken ankle, making Buckner’s arrival especially valuable for depth.
In short
- Buckner received a warm welcome in his first 49ers game in nearly seven years.
- San Francisco beat the Raiders 38-17 and forced five second-half turnovers.
- Rookie Gracen Halton is expected to miss the rest of the season.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Buckner’s return gives the 49ers an experienced, high-quality defender at a time when injuries are thinning their defensive line. His reunion with Bosa could strengthen the pass rush and run defence, while his warm reception reflects the value supporters place on loyalty and familiar players.
The case against
The welcome and the victory are encouraging, but one game does not establish how much Buckner will improve the defence over the rest of the season. The team still has not recorded a sack in two weeks, and relying on a returning veteran may not fully address its injuries or broader defensive needs.
Explained simply
DeForest Buckner is a defensive tackle, a player who helps stop runners and pressure the opposing quarterback. He first played for the San Francisco 49ers, alongside pass rusher Nick Bosa, before moving to the Indianapolis Colts nearly seven years ago.
Buckner has now returned to San Francisco, where his experience adds depth to a defensive line hit by injury. His reunion with Bosa comes as the 49ers look to keep their defence effective late in the season.
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