San Francisco 49ers: 10 Starters Who Might Not Make the 53-Man Roster in 2016
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: Linebacker Ahmad Brooks
Veteran linebacker Ahmad Brooks has been the subject of numerous bubble watches over the last couple of years, and yet he still manages to find himself on the roster.
A decrease in play since his 2013 Pro Bowl campaign, combined with the ascendance of pass-rushing linebacker Aaron Lynch, has negated the need for Brooks to remain with the 49ers for the long run.
Contractually, Brooks remains one of the most expensive players on the roster.
But with a considerably young defense, it’s unlikely the 49ers will part ways with Brooks considering they haven’t done so already.
Yet let’s consider a scenario in which the Niners make it happen.
Second-year pro Eli Harold could have an amazing camp, which could push Brooks out of a starting spot. And, let’s say, the 49ers’ experiment with Tank Carradine filling an edge-rusher role pulls another roster spot off the table.
Should another depth player impress well enough, is it too far fetched to suggest the Niners would part ways with Brooks at the end of camp?
Perhaps not. Again, stranger things have happened.
Next: QB Colin Kaepernick