Richard Sherman Urges 49ers to Acquire Vita Vea in Trade

Former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman is advocating for the team to trade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea, citing the 49ers' current 4-0 record and Super Bowl aspirations.

Sherman suggested that 49ers General Manager John Lynch should contact the Buccaneers, especially given Tampa Bay's current 0-4 standing. "If the price isn’t above a third-round pick, then I think you gotta make the move, even if it’s for just a one-season rental," Sherman stated.

Vea had previously sought a trade earlier in the offseason due to stalled contract negotiations, and the 49ers had reportedly shown interest in a deal with Tampa Bay. In July, reports indicated that Vea, a native of the Bay Area, was open to returning to the West Coast, with the 49ers among his preferred destinations. However, Vea signed a one-year, $30 million contract extension with the Buccaneers in the final week of preseason, expressing a desire to remain with the team long-term.

The Buccaneers' difficult start to the season, coupled with quarterback Baker Mayfield's injury, could prompt them to reconsider Vea's future with the team. The 49ers, who are already a top-10 run defense despite several injuries on their defensive line, including to Nick Bosa, could see significant improvement with the addition of Vea. Currently, the 49ers' defense allows opponents an average of 99.8 rushing yards per game.