San Francisco 49ers: A Way-Too-Early Prediction of the 2017 Starting Lineup
By Peter Panacy
![Sep 18, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; San Francisco 49ers center Daniel Kilgore (67) prepares to snap the ball during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the 49ers 46-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports Sep 18, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; San Francisco 49ers center Daniel Kilgore (67) prepares to snap the ball during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the 49ers 46-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/d5eedd4edd8c2158a121088e09aee4e739fe1e69ff1da21597d6880097df2669.jpg)
Running Back
Carlos Hyde
Did you think it would be anyone else?
Well, it could be. No. 1 tailback Carlos Hyde needs to prove he can stay healthy and consistent over the course of a 16-game season. He has yet to do this.
2016 could still be his breakout year. And we know he can thrive within head coach Chip Kelly’s inside-zone scheme.
Again, health.
If this becomes a problem, and let’s hope it doesn’t, the 49ers may explore adding a running back via free agency or the NFL Draft.
But that’s the lesser of both scenarios. San Francisco will roll out Hyde in 2017.
Next: Quarterback