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2017 NFL Draft: Ranking the 49ers 5 Biggest Needs Four Weeks into Season

By Peter Panacy

Sep 25, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin (77) during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin (77) during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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December 20, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aaron Lynch (59) during the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Levi's Stadium. The Chargers defeated the 49ers 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
December 20, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aaron Lynch (59) during the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Levi’s Stadium. The Chargers defeated the 49ers 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 2: Edge Rusher

Where is the 49ers pass rush?

Yes, linebacker Aaron Lynch is returning from a four-game suspension. That will help. And maybe, just maybe, he rises to the occasion and makes this need a little less pressing.

Still, it doesn’t mean the lack of an elite edge rusher just goes away.

Head coach Chip Kelly’s scheme could, on its own, allow the Niners to get away with just a good rushing attack and OK quarterback play. But his uptempo style can put the defense at risk, which increases the need to have superior pass-rushers within the ranks.

Aside from Lynch, San Francisco doesn’t really have anyone.

Veteran linebacker Ahmad Brooks is aging and is nowhere close to his 2013 Pro Bowl form. Second-year pro Eli Harold has yet to make the next jump, and Tank Carradine’s strong preseason hasn’t carried over into the regular season at all.

Remember, teams can never have too many pass-rushers. Even if rookie defensive end Ronald Blair manages to increase his prowess during the second half of 2016 — let’s hope so — the 49ers would be wise to add yet another body capable of setting the edge and getting to the quarterback.