Niner Noise
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San Francisco 49ers: 10 best defensive linemen in franchise history

By Logan Stanley

Sep 14, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Justin Smith (94) celebrates after sacking Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6, not pictured) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 14, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Justin Smith (94) celebrates after sacking Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6, not pictured) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 5, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Solomon Thomas (96) looks on during the 49ers Rookie Minicamp at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Solomon Thomas (96) looks on during the 49ers Rookie Minicamp at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 10: Solomon Thomas

49ers Tenure: N/A

Pro Bowl Selections: N/A

This is based primarily in that I believe No. 3 overall pick and newly drafted Solomon Thomas is going to one day make this list. The Stanford product was widely considered one of the draft’s top defensive line prospects for a reason.

Here is part of Pro Football Focus‘ draft breakdown of Thomas — note the player comparison:

"Elite run defender who uses strength to shed blockers easily Can generate pass-rush from the edge or the interior of the defensive line Wins as a pass-rusher with both power and speed Showed the ability to take on and shed all types of blocks in the run game Great feel for “back” blocks on “power” plays. Often disrupted plays two gaps away Player Comparison: Michael Bennett, Seattle Seahawks"

That is quite the comparison, considering Bennett is one of the best at his position in today’s game.

With Thomas’ traits, and the situation he will be entering with two solid teammates in Armstead and Buckner, the 21-year-old defensive linemen will flourish to become a great in the 49ers organization.