Report: 49ers are working on getting a deal done with Arik Armstead

Now that the NFL Combine is complete, many reporters and people that are tied into the NFL are reporting what they heard in Indianapolis. There have been a few reports regarding San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Arik Armstead and his contract situation. ESPN’s Josina Anderson reported that the 49ers want Armstead back and are working on getting a deal done. That hints at the fact there won’t be a franchise tag situation where Armstead makes around $17 million for 2020. A long-term deal would work better for both sides, especially if the team believes Armstead is “the guy” moving forward.

ESPN had a separate report Monday saying they expect Armstead to be tagged. Again, nobody knows, and it’ll be a guessing game until the situation is resolved. Former NFL agent Joel Curry of CBS Sports and expects Armstead to make just shy of $18 million a season. The salary cap is expected to raise nearly $40 million over the next two seasons, so keep that in mind as we get closer to free agency. Armstead is 26-years-old and coming off his best season as a pro. His play has been trending in the right direction, and Armstead is always available. Add in that he can dominate at two positions and is loved in the locker room and community, then working out a deal for the former Oregon Duck is a no-brainer. The cherry on top knows that he’s the most difficult unrestricted free agent on the roster to replace.

I’m fascinated to know what the deal is and how many guarantees, and incentives Armstead’s contract has. Has he proved enough? Or will it be a deal that is laced with a lot of player bonuses and stipulations? That’s what I’m curious about. It appears that Armstead will be with the 49ers moving forward. Now we just wait and see for how long and for how much.