The 49ers acquire LB Deion Jones from the Saints for RB Zamir White, AP source says

The San Francisco 49ers bolstered their linebacker position by acquiring Deion Jones from the New Orleans Saints in exchange for running back Zamir White, according to an AP source. The trade was finalized on Sunday night, as confirmed by a person with knowledge of the transaction, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the trade's unannounced nature.

Jones, a 31-year-old linebacker, had primarily served as a reserve player for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers over the past two seasons, often featuring on special teams. His career in the NFL began with Atlanta Falcons, where he earned Pro Bowl recognition in 2017 and played alongside the 49ers' defensive coordinator Raheem Morris in 2020.

While the 49ers did not have a critical need for a linebacker, with Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw, and other players vying for backup spots, they could have utilized an additional linebacker for practice purposes ahead of the season. Moreover, the New Orleans Saints faced a significant setback with the knee injury of their star running back, Alvin Kamara, which may keep him sidelined for approximately a month.

As a result, the Saints required reinforcements at the running back position. In response, White, who had fielded 14 carries for 30 yards in two exhibition games for the 49ers, was no longer necessary with the return of All-Pro Christian McCaffrey and rookie Kaelon Black from injuries. White had previously spent four seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, amassing 198 carries for 736 yards during his tenure in the 2023 season.