No. 2: Linebacker Reuben Foster
Injuries have been a problem for the second of San Francisco’s two first-round picks from the 2017 NFL Draft.
When he’s on the field, though, linebacker Reuben Foster is about the best defensive playmaker the 49ers have. And while he’s been limited to just four games and 205 snaps, Foster already ranks seventh on the team with 24 tackles.
And performances, like that against the Giants, showcase why this number will climb rapidly:
Reuben Foster played all 66 snaps vs. the Giants and recorded a game-high 10 tackles. It's happening.
— Joe Fann (@Joe_Fann) November 13, 2017
Foster also owns an 89.0 overall grade this season, per Pro Football Focus, which is just a little over one point behind the Carolina Panthers’ Luke Kuechly.
That’s pretty special, and Foster is a special player.
San Francisco’s defense is notably better with Foster on the field, so keeping him healthy is an absolute must over the rest of the season.