4 new NFC West players 49ers should worry about in 2021

49ers worry-about player No. 1: EDGE J.J. Watt, Cardinals

It’s a shame the last few years of J.J. Watt’s career have been defined more by his own injuries, along with the lackluster context of playing for the Texans, rather than his otherwise Hall of Fame-caliber resume.

Watt, who at least played a full 16 games last year but had just five sacks, will hopefully benefit (at least for his sake) from a complete change of scenery. And playing alongside fellow EDGE Chandler Jones, also looking for a healthy 2021, could make Arizona’s pass rush one of the more formidable in the league this year despite its injury concerns and age.

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And remember, Watt is still just three seasons removed from a 16-sack All-Pro campaign back in 2018.

The 49ers did a good job reinforcing their offensive line this offseason, namely by re-signing left tackle Trent Williams while bringing aboard new faces like center Alex Mack and the pass-protecting rookie, Aaron Banks, to play right guard. Yet there’s still a massive pass-protection concern with right tackle Mike McGlinchey, who’ll likely have to deal with Watt frequently twice a year, as Jones looks to work against Williams on the opposite end.

Even though Watt might be entering the twilight of his career, him going up against McGlinchey isn’t necessarily something giving Niners fans a lot of confidence right now.