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Although much of the NFL offseason has wrapped up, teams still have opportunities to adjust their rosters in the early part of the season. But what is the best strategy for making such moves? Teams often face ongoing challenges and try to move on from certain player contracts to improve their lineups.
I evaluate these transactions from each team’s perspective, considering various factors such as player quality, age, contracts, salary cap effects, draft compensation, and both short- and long-term team outlooks. The effectiveness and certainty of each deal’s impact are also assessed.
Starting with the San Francisco 49ers, they have acquired edge rusher Blythe Huff from the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for mid-round 2026 draft picks. Both teams receive a B+ grade for this trade.
The 49ers are banking on Huff’s disappointing 2024 season being an anomaly. Huff, who signed a lucrative three-year $51.1 million contract with the Eagles after showing strong pass-rushing ability with the Jets, struggled last year. While his pass-rush win rate dropped to 19% and he had limited production, he still posted solid historical numbers. Huff also missed time due to wrist surgery and was inactive for the Super Bowl, signaling Philadelphia had doubts about his performance.
San Francisco is seeking a quality edge rusher alongside Nick Bosa. Their top pick, Mykel Williams, is the main investment in that area, but Huff provides a different kind of option. Despite a slower pass-rush time than in previous years, his overall effectiveness remains above average and he fits well in a situational pass-rush role that maximizes his skills. The 49ers also benefit from defensive coordinator Robert Sale who coached Huff before and may unlock his potential.
Financially, the 49ers managed to keep Huff’s cost under $8 million for the year after restructuring, making this a low-risk move with potential high reward. Meanwhile, the Eagles are comfortable moving on as they have other options like veterans Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche, and young talent Jalyx Hunt. Saving money and gaining draft picks is a good outcome for Philadelphia given their doubts about Huff’s role.
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Fan Take: This trade is significant for NFL fans as it highlights how teams manage risk and reward when dealing with players coming off subpar seasons. The 49ers’ gamble on a talented but struggling edge rusher could provide a crucial boost to their pass rush and impact their Super Bowl aspirations, while the Eagles demonstrate smart roster management by gaining future assets.
