NFL
Premium Player Analysis
• player profiles
• fantasy projections
• printer-friendly tip sheets
San Francisco 49ers NFC West
Trade Details
VIKES, NINERS SWAP DEPTH PLAYERS HODGES, EASTON Tuesday, October 6, 2015
The San Francisco 49ers acquired linebacker Gerald Hodges from the Minnesota Vikings for center Nick Easton and a 6th-round draft pick in 2016.
What does it give the San Francisco 49ers?
The Niners have struggled on defense early this season, and Hodges is a solid and proven performer who can bring immediate rotational depth. Hodges is additionally a proven starter, so he gives head coach Jim Tomsula more options on 'D' moving forward. That said, this move doesn't fill an immediate specific need for San Francisco.
What does it give the Minnesota Vikings?
Hodges was a productive starter for Minny early this season so it's a tad curious they're shipping him out, but it's clear the Vikes have bigger plans for talented rookie linebacker Eric Kendricks. They also add some solid O-line help in underrated rookie Easton, while getting a pick in the bargain. Overall, a nice deal for Minnesota.
Fantasy Impact
Neither Hodges nor Easton projects as a starter anytime soon for his new squad, so there is little fantasy impact--other than the fact this deal turns rookie linebacker Kendricks into a probable starter the rest of this season (and so a nice sleeper in leagues featuring Individual Defensive Players).
Player Focus

to San Francisco 49ers

to Minnesota Vikings
a 6th-round draft pick in 2016
Nick Easton