Niner Noise
FanSided

Breaking down what the 49ers’ defense will look like in 2018

By Florito Maniego

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Tyler Lockett #16 of the Seattle Seahawks is tackled by Brock Coyle #50 and Reuben Foster #56 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Tyler Lockett #16 of the Seattle Seahawks is tackled by Brock Coyle #50 and Reuben Foster #56 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 26: Reuben Foster #56 and Brock Coyle #50 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after tackling Tyler Lockett #16 of the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 26: Reuben Foster #56 and Brock Coyle #50 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after tackling Tyler Lockett #16 of the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

Following NaVorro Bowman’s release in Oct. 2017, it became clear San Francisco is looking ahead to the future. In terms of linebackers, Reuben Foster is set to take over the second level of the 49ers’ defense.

Foster was one of the top defensive rookies in 2017, despite only playing 10 games. The Alabama product recorded 59 tackles during his first NFL season.

Pro Football Focus also gave Foster a 90.7 overall grade as a result of his rookie performance.

One problem with Foster heading into the 2018 season is his arrest for marijuana possession on Jan. 12. Foster could potentially miss a few games due to his misdemeanor, and so other players might need to step up.

Although, with Foster in the lineup and linebacker Malcolm Smith set to return from an injury, San Francisco’s linebacker corps could be problematic for other teams.

Foster’s versatility allows him to either play as the middle or weak-side linebacker. YouTube content creator Voch Lombardi breaks down several of Foster’s highlights from 2017, showcasing his physicality, speed and hard-tackling abilities:

A key play to highlight is when the 49ers run an outside-zone play against the Seattle Seahawks’ halfback sweep. Preventing running back Eddie Lacy from making a big play, Foster doesn’t overcommit and seals the gap in the middle.

Along with his incredible acceleration, Foster is excellent at reading plays. This ability allows Foster to stop the run effectively and chase down players from anywhere on the field.

By plugging in Smith as the SAM linebacker and Eli Harold on the weak side, the 49ers’ run defense could further improve in 2018.

Also with Robert Saleh’s special blitz packages, San Francisco’s linebackers could play a key factor in rushing the quarterback.