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49ers Training Camp position-by-position breakdown

By Douglas Totten

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Special Teams Breakdown

One of the saddest events for a long-time 49ers fan occurred this offseason as the 49ers’ punter of the past decade, Andy Lee, was traded (of all things, to the Browns). Lee was one of the few players who consistently performed well in the mid-2000s. Now, 5th round draft pick Bradley Pinion will be taking his place as punter and, presumably, holder for kicker (and former Brown) Phil Dawson.

Pinion will also likely take over kickoff duties, as Dawson is getting older and does not have the same strength in his legs as he used to. Pinion, a Clemson product, probably won’t be booming punts the same distance as Lee did early in his career, but he was drafted early for a punter, and for good reason. Pinion is a solid punter.

Punting may not be appreciated that much by the average NFL fan. If, like me, however, you dealt with the struggles of the Mike Nolan era, you know just how much a good punter can lift your spirits after your offense fails (again) to get a first down. Hopefully Pinion does not get used too often, but he will be a good replacement for Lee, as sad as it is to see number 4 leave.

Elsewhere in special teams, Dawson should have no problem with the new extra point distance, as he has been perfect from 32 or 33 yards since 2001.

Kassim Osgood, though he may not make the team as a receiver, should make it as a special teamer, as he is one of the best coverage men and special teams players in the NFL.

Though it is difficult to see Andy Lee leave, the 49ers special teams unit is in no dire straights.

Next: Top 5 49ers Running Backs All-Time

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