Predicting 49ers 2021 starting offensive, defensive starting lineups

49ers Linebackers

MIKE Fred Warner

WILL Dre Greenlaw

SAM Samsom Ebukam/Marcell Harris

Fred Warner is the best middle linebacker in football and will likely be paid as such in the coming year. His ability in coverage uniquely changes the way former coordinator Robert Saleh was able and Demeco Ryans will be able to call games.

Dre Greenlaw certainly outplayed his draft stature in the last two years, and despite perhaps less of a leap in development as hoped for, he will be secure in his position as weakside or WILL linebacker.

That leaves the SAM, or strongside linebacker.

This is more of a part-time position, especially as the 49ers play more and more nickel sets. That said, it is likely the 49ers will use different players there given the situation. With the signing of Tony Jefferson in the secondary, Marcell Harris is a little more expendable, and he played fairly well last year when playing a pseudo-strongside linebacker. In more expectant run situations, or in an attempt to get more pass-rush on the field, it is possible, and even likely, Samson Ebukam also plays some SAM.