NFL Trade Rumors: 49ers showed interest in Eagles linebacker Mychal Kendricks

The San Francisco 49ers showed interest in trading for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Mychal Kendricks earlier this offseason, according to a report from KNBR’s Kevin Jones.

Jones also notes a deal is unlikely to get done now that the 49ers drafted Reuben Foster in the first round. NFL insider Adam Caplan adds it looked like a deal was likely to get done at one point.

It’s no surprise to hear Kendricks’ name involved in trade rumors. Earlier this offseason, PhillyVoice reported the Eagles are expected to trade the team’s WILL linebacker. After a deal failed to materialize after the beginning of free agency, there was thought Kendricks might be dealt closer to the 2017 NFL Draft.

But here he is, still on the Eagles’ roster. Maybe in part because the Eagles’ asking price is too high? That’s what NFL Draft Diamonds is reporting. The Inquirer previously reported the Eagles want at least a fifth-round selection for Kendricks.

It’s hard to imagine the Eagles bringing back Kendricks for the 2017 season. The team barely used him in 2016; he only played 27% of the team’s defensive snaps.

In theory, at least, Kendricks should have some value around league. He’s only 26 and he’s had some positive flashes over his career. Unfortunately he just hasn’t been consistent.

The Eagles drafted a potential Kendricks replacement by selecting safety Nathan Perry in the fifth round of this year’s draft. The plan is to move Perry from his old position to linebacker.

Philadelphia could always opt to keep Kendricks around since he’s under contract but a trade seems like the ideal outcome for all parties.