San Francisco 49ers: 4 players who should see more snaps vs. Broncos
By Peter Panacy
With the San Francisco 49ers in full evaluation mode during the final stretch of 2018, these four players should get increased reps during Week 14 versus the Denver Broncos.
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman pointed it out — the Niners are a team derailed by injuries and playing second- and third-string players at positions of prominence all over the roster.
“You think about the guys we have out there; we lose our number one receiver, number two receiver, number one quarterback, number two quarterback, number one running back,” Sherman said (h/t David Bonilla of 49ers Webzone) after the 49ers’ 43-16 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 13. “It just ends up adding up.”
It’s true. Case in point, the Niners lost starting safety Jaquiski Tartt during the game to a stinger. From there on, San Francisco was starting backup defensive back Antone Exum and the rookie, Marcell Harris, at both safety positions.
There is a benefit to all this, however.
At 2-10, head coach Kyle Shanahan’s efforts are now all about identifying what he has remaining on his roster. Only a handful of the depth players and backups may be a part of the team’s future in 2019. But instead of waiting for OTAs, training camp and next year’s preseason to start the evaluation process, Shanahan is essentially gifted that observing time right now.
The 6-6 Denver Broncos, who are riding a three-game win streak, visit the 49ers in Week 14 at Levi’s Stadium, and Shanahan would be wise to ensure the following four players see as much playing time as possible during this home bout for San Francisco.