Biggest Camp Battles to Watch: Defense
The 49ers attempted to solve one of their biggest 2017 defensive issues, the secondary, by making some key moves this offseason. Most notably, the Niners brought aboard three-time All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman to assume both a starting job and a mentoring role to San Francisco’s otherwise young secondary.
Yet the Niners chose not to make big splashes to address another defensive weakness, the pass rush, where they finished 26th in sacks last year (30).
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Edge Rusher
Speaking of that pass rush, the 49ers hope to get some massive production from edge players Cassius Marsh and Jeremiah Attaochu this season.
But with both having a combined 16 sacks over the last four years, it’s not exactly a promising combo for defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
As a result, Saleh will be looking to get more out of 2017 first rounder Solomon Thomas (three sacks last year) in what needs to be a major step forward in the former Stanford product’s development. Deeper looks at edge rushers, such as second-year pro Pita Taumoepenu, should also warrant some attention.
Cornerback Depth
Like the situation at wide receiver, the 49ers have their ideal starting three in place for 2018 — Sherman, Ahkello Witherspoon and K’Waun Williams.
After that? It’s hard to say.
San Francisco invested a third-round 2018 draft pick in former Southern Mississippi safety Tarvarius Moore, who’ll switch over to corner at the pro level. He’ll likely make the 53-man roster, but don’t expect him to come close to starting in year one. Projected nickel cornerback, D.J. Reed, should also have a role carved out, especially if he can contribute on special teams.
Veteran defensive backs, like Greg Mabin and Tyvis Powell, could be dark-horse candidates to crack the roster.
Linebacker
A year ago, the Niners linebacking depth was tested, namely after then-rookie Reuben Foster suffered an elongated high-ankle sprain.
Foster is healthy entering 2018 but will serve a two-game suspension to open up the season.
On one hand, this tables San Francisco’s need to lay out the preferred depth chart until Week 3, saving a roster spot in the process. But, of course, the Niners would prefer Foster on the field.
At any rate, it will be interesting to watch how Saleh manages veterans Brock Coyle, Malcolm Smith and Eli Harold with the rookie, Fred Warner.
Keep a watch on which players, especially Warner, work with the first- and second-team units this camp.