49ers vs. Colts: Previewing Preseason Week 3 for San Francisco
By Chris Wilson
49ers competitions and players to watch
The entire first-team offense will be closely scrutinized today, after they failed to stop Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in Week 1 and Watson in Week 2. The 49ers’ starting offense will look to continue their dominance through the air, while establishing a running game that was nonexistent over the first two preseason games.
Linebacker
The 49ers already had a competition at inside linebacker; after Thursday’s trade of starting SAM linebacker Eli Harold, they now have a competition on the outside as well. LB Mark Nzeocha will start at SAM linebacker in today’s matchup, with Pita Taumoepenu and Dekoda Watson also seeing playing time at the position. San Francisco could also use rookie Fred Warner or one of their other inside linebackers at SAM. Although their regular season roles are still in question, Warner and Brock Coyle are locks to make the team, while Elijah Lee and Korey Toomer continue to fight for roster spots.
Running Back
Veteran running back Alfred Morris will get the start today, after signing with the 49ers last week. None of his fellow backs stood out from the pack in extended playing time after top runners McKinnon and Breida were shelved for the remainder of the preseason. RB Raheem Mostert has likely nailed down a roster spot thanks to his role on special teams, but the subpar play of fellow running backs Joe Williams — who will miss today’s game — and Jeremy McNichols have opened the door for Morris to win a final roster spot with a strong showing against the Colts.
Right Guard
Both offensive linemen Jonathan Cooper and Joshua Garnett returned to action last week, with Garnett getting the start at right guard. Today, Cooper could get his chance to run with the first-team offense, as the duo continue to compete for the starting job to begin the season. While Mike Person started at right guard in the 49ers’ first preseason game, the versatile veteran is more suited for a backup role, and will likely make the roster in that capacity.
Cornerback
Sherman’s highly anticipated debut with his new team will be first time the star cornerback sees game action since he tore his right Achilles last November, and then had precautionary surgery on his left Achilles this February. After struggling at outside cornerback during Sherman’s absence, Ward could see a move back to safety, or to slot cornerback, as Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh search for a position for their most expensive defensive player to play.
Wide Receiver
After a standout NFL debut in Week 1, rookie wideout Richie James was quiet against the Texans after fellow slot receiver Taylor returned from injury. Victor Bolden also saw less action in Houston, after leading the team with 54 receiving yards against Dallas. James and Bolden will continue to compete with Kendrick Bourne, Aldrick Robinson and Aaron Burbridge — none of whom stood out last week — for the final spots on the 49ers’ wide receiver depth chart.