Ex-49ers DB urges team to trade for Pro Bowl DT

Richard Sherman thinks the San Francisco 49ers should revisit a trade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea.

The former 49ers cornerback made his pitch on the "Richard Sherman Podcast" after San Francisco's Week 4 win over the Denver Broncos .

"If I'm [49ers general manager] John Lynch, I'm calling the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and saying, 'Hey, he was disgruntled before, you guys weren't sellers, you're 0-4 right now, are you sellers or not? What is the price?' And if the price isn't above a third-rounder, then I think you got to make that move," Sherman said. "Even if it's just a one-season rental, I think you got to make that move and try to get this team better, especially against the run. I mean, it only strengthens your team. He's one of the best defensive tackles in the National Football League."

San Francisco did call about Vea in August, though. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported the 49ers were among the teams that inquired after Vea requested a trade at the start of training camp. But on Aug. 19, V ea and the Buccaneers agreed to a one-year extension worth $30 million . The deal keeps him in Tampa Bay through 2027 and includes $6 million in new money this year.

Vea, who's from nine miles north of Santa Clara, California, is 31 and a two-time Pro Bowler. He had 51 pressures last season, tied for seventh among interior defensive linemen, according to Pro Football Focus. This season, he has just eight combined tackles through four games.

San Francisco's need up front is clear. Nick Bosa is out with a calf and knee issue and is expected to miss multiple weeks and James Thompson Jr. is out with an ankle injury; Keion White (hamstring) and Romello Height (hand) are also banged up. Sam Okuayinonu, Alfred Collins, C.J. West and Mikail Kamara are on injured reserve. Mykel Williams could return soon after his 21-day practice window opened following his 2025 ACL injury, but there's no guarantee he'll look good immediately.

Vea would fill a huge need to bolster the defensive line, but it's unclear if the 49ers are in a position to make a move. They traded a third-round pick for Osa Odighizuwa this past offseason, who has seven combined tackles and five quarterback hits this season.