San Francisco 49ers: 10 Biggest X-Factors for 2016 Season
By Peter Panacy
No. 7: Edge-Rusher Tank Carradine
The attempt to install fourth-year pro into an everyday 3-4 defensive end has failed. Known more for his edge-rushing abilities in Florida State’s 4-3 defense, Carradine never quite made the transition into the player who could replace now-retired defensive end Justin Smith.
So now, the 49ers are trying one last move to shift Carradine from a 3-4 DE into a more natural fit in order to best utilize his skill set.
Carradine has slimmed down to find work in more of an outside linebacker-type role, and helping out the Niners’ anemic pass rush will be one way in which the former second-round pick can finally live up to expectations.
Why He’ll Improve
Switching positions may be the best thing that has happened to Carradine at the pro level. Focusing more on pass-rushing technique in sub packages, Carradine’s new role might help turn around San Francisco’s horrific pass rush from a year ago — 28 sacks, which ranked 29th in the NFL — and actually provide some notable impact.
Plus, the 49ers made notable improvements to the defensive line during the offseason. These additions could help open up lanes for Carradine to exploit.
Why He’ll Disappoint
2016 will likely mark Carradine’s last-best hope to make a substantial impact with the 49ers. Up to now, he’s been a major disappointment. The position switch is a good thing and something of benefit.
But this doesn’t automatically translate into on-the-field success for a player so hyped out of college.
It’s entirely possible Carradine remains a bad-to-OK player at best. And the 49ers pass rush can’t afford the latter if it wants to remain relevant in 2016. That’s an X-factor defined.
Next: No. 6: S Jaquiski Tartt