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49ers player stock watch after first weekend of 2019 training camp

By Chris Wilson

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to their game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levis Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to their game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levis Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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49ers 2019 training camp stock defense
SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 23: Anthony Miller #17 of the Chicago Bears is tackled after a catch against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Stock Up: 49ers’ Defense

The 49ers’ defense dominated the team’s offense on both days of practice. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner continued to look like his All-Pro self, while fellow University of Oregon product Arik Armstead was extremely effective against the run. Armstead lined up at defensive end with the first-string defense over Bosa — which may change in the coming months — and moved inside to rush the quarterback on passing downs.

Defensive lineman Julian Taylor, who is fighting for a final roster spot on the 49ers’ stacked defensive line, made his case for the team’s final 53-man roster with a pair of impressive practices, and newcomer EDGE Dee Ford appeared worthy of his new five-year deal as he showed off against 49ers right tackle Mike McGlinchey during pass-rush drills.

Related Story. 49ers' top training camp position battles. light

Stock Up: LB Dre Greenlaw

Another rookie competing for a starting role is undersized rookie linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who flew around the field making plays with the first-team defense on Saturday. When asked about Greenlaw’s impressive Day-1 performance, 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh responded:

"He’s got good athletic movement, good instincts, more instincts than I thought he would behind the ball. You know, we’ve still got to get pads on, see how he can hold up against those linemen. He’s proving it every day by just being accountable and doing things the right way. He’s in the mix for that SAM linebacker spot, along with about four or five other guys. It’s an open position and may the best man win.” – Robert Saleh"

Saleh also stated Greenlaw is in the mix for the team’s WILL linebacker role when the 49ers line up with nickel personnel, due to his excellent coverage skills.