San Francisco 49ers: Ranking Each Position by Strength Entering 2016

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January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers kicker Phil Dawson (9) kicks the game-winning field goal during overtime against the St. Louis Rams at Levi’s Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Special Teams

Special Teams for the 49ers has not been good for several seasons. The kicking part of the game has been manageable, but the return game has been the equivalent of smelling a rotting fish every day.

Bruce Ellington averaged over 25 yards per kick return in 2015, which ranked him 9th in the league. However, his punt return average of 7.2 was a full yard less than his average in 2014, and didn’t rank him anywhere near the top-10 in punt returns.

The 49ers tried various players in the return game, namely now retired running back Jarryd Hayne. Hayne fumbled two of his first three punt returns and was never given the opportunity again the rest of the season. This was a curious decision simply based on what he did in the preseason, which was electrifying.

Oct 18, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers punter Bradley Pinion (5) punts the ball against the Baltimore Ravens during the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

The 49ers are still paying the price for not having a top-notch return man. For 2016, Ellington will split duties with another player (perhaps DeAndrew White). The return game could become the offenses’ best friend if more yardage can be gained in the returns. This would lead to shorter drives and less offensive player burnout.

Kicker Phil Dawson just turned 41 years old. How much leg does he have left in the tank? He has usually been a very accurate kicker – but can he consistently make the 50 yard-plus FGs anymore? Will the impact of having John Lunsford in camp make any difference?

Bradley Pinion had an OK first season. He should be better in year two.

Until the return game gets its act together, this unit will remain as the weakest on the roster.

Next: Wide Receivers