For the most part, the San Francisco 49ers have their defensive starters penciled in, along with the bulk of their primary backups and reserves. Yet one intriguing name continues to surface as a potential addition that could meaningfully bolster the unit: former first-round defensive tackle Arik Armstead.

Armstead, who departed the 49ers as a salary-cap casualty ahead of the 2024 season, now finds himself in a strikingly similar situation with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Cash-strapped Jacksonville, facing significant cap constraints, may soon part ways with the veteran to create much-needed breathing room. As Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay noted, it’s somewhat surprising that Armstead remains on the Jaguars’ roster following the June 1 deadline.

Releasing Armstead would clear nearly $15 million in cap space for Jacksonville while incurring only a shade under $5 million in dead money. The move appears increasingly logical. Though Armstead delivered as a quality contributor to the NFL’s top-ranked rushing defense last season and posted a career-high 5.5 sacks since 2021, he is entering his age-33 campaign and could be poised for some regression. The Jaguars also added depth this offseason by trading for Ruke Orhorhoro, who could step into Armstead’s role. With just $9.7 million in current cap space, per Over the Cap, a roster trim feels imminent.

Should Jacksonville pull the trigger, the 49ers would be wise to pounce.

While San Francisco has invested heavily in its defensive line over the past two years—adding talents like Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, C.J. West, Gracen Halton, and Romello Height—a reunion with Armstead would not be excessive. Instead, it would serve two critical purposes on a unit that is talented but notably young.

First, Armstead would provide a steady veteran presence and stabilizing voice in the locker room for a group now relying heavily on first- and second-year pros. Second, he offers valuable versatility as a rotational edge setter on base downs who can slide inside during passing situations. At this stage of his career, Armstead may not be an every-down player, but his experience remains highly valuable.

Timing also favors a potential homecoming. Mykel Williams continues to recover from last year’s torn ACL and could miss the early portion of the regular season, creating an opening for Armstead to step into a more prominent role initially. His leadership and know-how could prove instrumental in helping the younger defenders navigate the rigors of the NFL.

Assuming Armstead would welcome a return to the organization that drafted him in the first round back in 2015, the fit feels natural. The 49ers get a proven, scheme-familiar lineman who understands the culture and expectations in Santa Clara. Armstead, meanwhile, returns to a contending environment where he can contribute immediately while mentoring the next generation.

The Jaguars simply need to make the first move. If they do, don’t be surprised to see Armstead back in the red and gold. The NFC West, already wary of San Francisco’s defensive potential, would have every reason to take notice.