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San Francisco 49ers: An Early Look at the Team’s 2017 Free Agents

By Peter Panacy

Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert looks over the defense against the St. Louis Rams in the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert looks over the defense against the St. Louis Rams in the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 15, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Ian Williams (R) speaks to the media in the locker room after a press conference for the introduction of Jim Tomsula (not pictured) as head coach at Levi’s Stadium Auditorium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Ian Williams (R) speaks to the media in the locker room after a press conference for the introduction of Jim Tomsula (not pictured) as head coach at Levi’s Stadium Auditorium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Nose Tackle Ian Williams

OK, now for the more-prominent players on the 49ers roster. Let’s start with nose tackle Ian Williams, who was San Francisco’s highest-graded player (plus-24.4) according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required) last season.

Williams was initially signed to a long-term extension after his first fully healthy year at the pro level in 2015. But a failed physical, following ankle procedures, forced the Niners to rework his contract to a one-year deal.

Nearly all of Williams’ future in San Francisco will revolve around his health. With Week 1 still in doubt, the 49ers will look to other players — defensive linemen Quinton Dial or Tony Jerod-Eddie — to plug the gap in Williams’ stead.

But there isn’t any denying Williams’ ability to stuff the run. When healthy, he’s one of the better D-linemen on San Francisco’s roster.

When healthy.

2016 may not get off to a good start for the 26-year-old veteran. But let’s bank on a consecutive strong effort and suggest he’ll be back with the Niners on another extension.

Next: Unrestricted Free Agents -- Phil Dawson