San Francisco 49ers: 5 Rookies Who Could Start in Week 1 of 2016 Season
By Peter Panacy
Defensive End DeForest Buckner
Drafted in Round 1, No. 7 Overall
First-round draft picks are frequently expected to step in and provide an immediate impact right away.
The 49ers are hoping for such out of former Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner.
Buckner will be paired with former Ducks teammate Arik Armstead along an up-and-coming defensive line, and it’s one of the few units within the 49ers that shows a good amount of strength.
That strength may be one of the reasons why Buckner won’t start right away though. San Francisco already has Armstead along with nicely developing defensive tackle Quinton Dial and run-stuffing lineman Ian Williams in the way.
But the good thing is this — regardless whether or not Buckner starts, the 49ers will be employing a regular rotation along the D-line. The rookie will get his snaps. There isn’t any doubting that.
Why He’ll Start
The 49ers will want an immediate return on Buckner. And Buckner has a higher upside than the guy San Francisco selected in Round 1 a year earlier, Armstead.
If Buckner’s collegiate success translates quickly onto the field at the pro level, the 49ers will have little choice but to get the 6’7″ standout involved as often as possible.
Why He Won’t Start
As noted, the 49ers D-line is a little crowded. And head coach Chip Kelly may elect to start veterans like Williams and Dial in base formations and against the run. But in sub packages, of which there will be many, Buckner will still see plenty of action.
Next: OG Joshua Garnett