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San Francisco 49ers: Identifying 5 Cornerstone Players on 2017 Roster

By Peter Panacy

December 11, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end DeForest Buckner (99) sacks New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty (9) during the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. The Jets defeated the 49ers 23-17 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
December 11, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end DeForest Buckner (99) sacks New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty (9) during the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. The Jets defeated the 49ers 23-17 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 2, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde (28) warms up prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde (28) warms up prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3: Running Back Carlos Hyde

Featured tailback Carlos Hyde was just 12 yards short from eclipsing the 1,000 yards-rushing plateau before an MCL injury cut his 2016 campaign short in Week 16.

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Prior to that, fans caught a glimpse of what Hyde could be within a solid zone-blocking scheme.

And only if the Niners boasted a top-tier offensive line. Football Outsiders ranked San Francisco’s O-line dead last in run support last year.

Regardless, Hyde is a major X-factor for the 49ers offense. He’ll continue to be the bell cow and remains one of the few impact players the Niners have entering 2017.

While San Francisco would be wise to add some more weapons, especially in the passing game, this offseason, coming up with ways to feature Hyde on a regular basis isn’t exactly a bad idea either.

If it works, Hyde’s amazing efforts at Ohio State should finally be on full display on a growing 49ers offense this season.