With Just Hours Left Before Trade Deadline, 49ers Push Hard on $21 Million Deal to Replace Nick Bosa and Protect Playoff Ambitions

San Francisco, November 2025

With just hours remaining before the NFL 2025 trade deadline closes, the San Francisco 49ers are creating a major splash. According to multiple internal sources, the red-and-gold team is rushing to finalize the acquisition of edge rusher Arden Key from the Tennessee Titans — a $21 million contract they hope will become the “adrenaline shot” for their defense following the severe injury to superstar Nick Bosa.

After a crucial win over the Giants to maintain pace in the NFC chase, the 49ers know they cannot afford to stop. As the playoff race enters its most intense phase, losing Nick Bosa — the defensive cornerstone and soul of the pass rush — has created a massive void that cannot be ignored. Rookie Mykel Williams is also out for the season, forcing management to act with lightning speed.

Arden Key is no stranger to San Francisco. He wore the 49ers jersey in the 2021 season, making a strong impression with his speed, technique, and especially his pressure-creating ability in the system of defensive line coach Kris Kocurek. That very season marked a turning point in Key’s career, propelling him into one of the notable pass rushers on the free-agent market and later earning a big contract with the Titans.

Now, the circle closes — and the 49ers expect Key to bring back the fire, discipline, and playoff experience to fill the spot left by Bosa. This deal is not just tactical; it’s about spirit: the 49ers are betting that Key’s fighting DNA still belongs to San Francisco.

In an interview revealed after trade rumors spread widely, Arden Key sent an emotional message to 49ers fans: “San Francisco has always been a special place for me. I understand the system, understand the team’s fighting culture — and most importantly, I feel the love from you all. If I return here, I will play with my heart, play like every snap is the last game. I want to give everything — for my teammates, for the city, for the Faithfuls.”

If the deal goes through, the 49ers will immediately have a familiar weapon to continue their playoff push while sending a clear message to the entire NFL: they are not giving up, not backing down — and remain “all-in” for the Lombardi title.

The season is still long, but this determination is already crystal clear: the 49ers are fighting to their last breath.