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San Francisco 49ers: 5 Burning Questions for 2016 Training Camp

By Peter Panacy

July 24, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) stretches during training camp at the SAP Performance Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
July 24, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) stretches during training camp at the SAP Performance Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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ARLINGTON, TX - JANUARY 12: Defensive lineman DeForest Buckner #44 of the Oregon Ducks looks on in the first half during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium on January 12, 2015 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX – JANUARY 12: Defensive lineman DeForest Buckner #44 of the Oregon Ducks looks on in the first half during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium on January 12, 2015 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

What to Expect out of Defensive End DeForest Buckner?

It’s not surprising to see most NFL Draft analysts tab the 49ers’ first pick in 2016 as their best. It would be hard to miss on a top-10 player either way, and former Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner has that description written all over him.

Buckner was tabbed as the No. 2 overall prospect on multiple draft boards — second only behind tackle Laremy Tunsil — and the 49ers couldn’t pass on him at No. 7.

So what should be the level of expectations this season?

A lot of the rookie’s role will depend on nose tackle Ian Williams’ ankle injury and whether or not he’ll be healthy enough for Week 1. Should Williams be good to go, Buckner likely won’t start right away. The 49ers defensive front would probably start Williams, and fellow DEs Quinton Dial and Arik Armstead.

This doesn’t mean Buckner won’t get his snaps. And with the defensive line likely rotating plenty to stay fresh opposite head coach Chip Kelly’s fast-paced offense, Buckner will have his chances.

Buckner is a better pass-rushing force than his former Oregon teammate, Armstead, and will match the same pound-for-pound frame in what looks to be a very formidable defensive line in coming seasons.

San Francisco’s selection of Buckner was only the first part of a widespread phase from general manager Trent Baalke to reinforce the trenches during the draft.

As the 49ers’ No. 1 pick though, Buckner will have a lot more pressure on him to deliver than his teammates.

And the Niners aren’t in a position to handle a first-round bust.

Next: What Happens at Quarterback?