San Francisco 49ers, Breaking Down Team’s Strengths, Liabilities in 2016
By Peter Panacy
The national narrative doesn’t expect much out of the San Francisco 49ers in 2016. A young roster, a general lack of talent, roster questions and more have led many to believe the Niners will stink it up this season. But there are more than a handful of strengths to offset the liabilities. Let’s break down both categories.
No, the San Francisco 49ers aren’t going to the Super Bowl in 2016. And the Niners probably aren’t destined for the playoffs either.
While stranger things have happened, it’s not hard to see why few experts and pundits are predicting the 49ers to much of anything this season. Pro Football Focus’ Nathan Jahnke predicted San Francisco to bring up the NFC West cellar with a 4-12 record — a mark worse than last year’s 5-11 finish.
We could go into all the reasons behind this but, to be honest, the Niners’ 2016 record doesn’t matter all that much. San Francisco is amidst a full-on rebuilding phase. This year is about finding the right pieces around which to build.
There are a lot of questions about those pieces. Some are good, a handful are great, and there is a mixed bag of hopefuls and let’s-see-type players. And then there are some true liabilities and worries.
So let’s break down the team’s best strengths but not overlook the liabilities either.
Next: The Defensive Line