Predicting 49ers 2021 starting offensive, defensive starting lineups

49ers Special Teams

Kicker Robbie Gould

Punter Mitch Wishnowsky

Lon- Snapper Taybor Pepper

Kick Returner Ambry Thomas (rookie)

Punt Returner Elijah Mitchell (rookie)

The 49ers brought back the same kicking/punting unit from last year. Taybor Pepper was excellent as a long-snapper, and they’ll be no surprises there. Robbie Gould seemingly lost any sense of range, but his accuracy from close was stellar, and though his contract is excessive for his ability at this age, he’s the guaranteed starting kicker for San Francisco. Mitch Wishnowsky has been a little disappointing in his 49ers tenure, especially given how he was supposed to be the 49ers’ version of Michael Dickson and was drafted in the fourth round, but he’s been fine nevertheless.

More from SF 49ers News

• DraftKings NFL Draft Promo – Win $150 Guaranteed on Any $5 Bet 
• Updated 49ers salary cap space ahead of 2023 NFL Draft
• Deebo Samuel fully admits his hatred of LA Rams
• Brock Purdy jokingly says he’s learning to throw left-handed
• 49ers news: Trey Lance is in the dark regarding trade talk

The real change comes from the return department, where the 49ers have been an absolute dumpster fire the last few years. While Richie James is back to defend his position, it’s most likely that they’ll both go to newer different players. Both Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk were seen taking punts in OTAs, but since NFL teams tend to avoid risking starting players to major injuries in special teams, the returners guessed, for now, are two rookies with returning experience.

Ambry Thomas was a decent returner in college, and Elijah Mitchell has the profile of a good punt returner.

Together, they might give a spark for the third phase of the game.

When training camp comes around, a depth chart will begin to be truly finalized. But as the dog days of the offseason approach, there’s still value in seeing just how the 49ers might line up on Sundays.