Predicting 49ers 2021 starting offensive, defensive starting lineups

49ers Defensive Line

Alpha: DE Arik Armstead, NT Maurice Hurst, DT Javon Kinlaw, DE Nick Bosa

Turbo: DE Samson Ebukam, DT Javon Kinlaw, DT Arik Armstead, DE Nick Bosa

The Alpha Unit for the 49ers is the base-down unit, while Turbo is for passing downs. As near the end of last year, Arik Armstead will line up on the outside at EDGE as the “big end” during base downs, while Kinlaw will hit the trenches inside as a 3-tech. Returning will be Nick Bosa, whose health will be the only question as to whether he can return to pure dominance.

The one position really up for debate is the 1-tech, where free-agent signing Maurice Hurst Jr. from the Raiders is slotted right now. While D.J. Jones, last year’s starter, returns as well, Hurst has graded exceptionally well at the position in years past, and though it will be a camp battle to watch, my guess is Hurst walks away with it.

Another player to watch here would be Kevin Givens, who defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans is very excited about.

The Turbo, or pass-rushing, unit has Armstead sliding into the interior, along with Kinlaw, while Bosa is on one edge. The other edge will likely be free-agent acquisition Samson Ebukam, who has never been a full-time pass-rusher before when on the LA Rams and will be given the opportunity to let loose and attack.

Should Dee Ford be able to return fully healthy at some point in the season, an improbable but not impossible task, the edge rotation will have much stronger depth behind it.