Jaguars' cap situation could free Arik Armstead, potentially reuniting him with the 49ers for a veteran defensive line boost.
The San Francisco 49ers could have an interesting opportunity to bring back a familiar face along the defensive line this offseason, especially after choosing to move on from defensive tackle Kalia Davis and allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.
Davis never quite carved out a consistent role in San Francisco’s defensive front, and his departure leaves the team with questions about depth along the interior. While the 49ers do have young talent waiting in the wings, the loss of rotational pieces could push the front office to look for a veteran option who already understands the system.
That possibility could open the door for a reunion with former 49ers defensive lineman Arik Armstead.
Armstead is currently under contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but his situation bears watching as the offseason unfolds. The veteran carries a cap hit of roughly $19.5 million next season, which could make him a potential cap casualty if Jacksonville decides to create financial flexibility.
While Armstead was still productive last year, his numbers didn’t quite match the size of that contract. In 16 games (11 starts), he recorded 5.5 sacks, 28 tackles, eight quarterback hits, and one forced fumble. Solid production, but not necessarily the type that guarantees a team will keep a veteran at that salary figure.
If the Jaguars ultimately choose to release him, the 49ers could become a logical landing spot.
San Francisco’s defensive tackle situation is still somewhat in flux. Along with Davis departing, veteran interior lineman Jordan Elliott is also headed for free agency. The 49ers did invest in youth at the position during the draft, selecting CJ West and Alfred Collins to help reshape the defensive line for the future.
Collins in particular flashed enough upside as a rookie to suggest he could take on a larger role next season. However, asking two young defensive tackles to carry the interior without an experienced presence could be risky for a team trying to contend in the NFC and that’s where Armstead could make sense.
Even if he’s no longer the dominant force he once was in San Francisco, the 32-year-old still understands the scheme and the culture inside the building. His versatility along the line and leadership in the locker room made him a cornerstone of the 49ers’ defense for years, and those traits could still provide value especially if the price is right.
Of course, the relationship between the two sides didn’t end perfectly. Following the team’s loss in Super Bowl LVIII, the 49ers asked Armstead to take a pay cut. He declined, which ultimately led to his release. Armstead later admitted he felt disrespected by the situation, adding another layer of intrigue to any potential reunion. However, time often softens those types of disagreements in the NFL.
If Armstead were to hit the open market and the 49ers were willing to offer a short-term, team-friendly deal, both sides could benefit. San Francisco would gain a veteran mentor for its young defensive tackles, while Armstead would get a chance to finish his career in the system where he experienced the most success.