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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 /
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Oct 11, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde (28) carries the ball as New York Giants outside linebacker Mark Herzlich (94) defends during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Giants won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Jim O’Connor-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde (28) carries the ball as New York Giants outside linebacker Mark Herzlich (94) defends during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Giants won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Jim O’Connor-USA TODAY Sports /

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