5 key takeaways from 49ers cuts and initial 2021 roster
By Peter Panacy
Takeaway No. 4: 49ers don’t want to compromise defensive line depth
Among the many positives stemming from the 49ers’ three-game preseason campaign was just how formidable and deep the defensive line was.
Almost prolific. And this, without Pro Bowl EDGEs Nick Bosa and Dee Ford, resting after suffering serious injuries a year ago, gracing the field during this exhibition phase.
Instead, players like defensive tackles Kentavius Street and Zach Kerr became Niners preseason heroes, and it’s likely their strong outings in the preseason prompted many a team around the league to call general manager John Lynch and inquire about their availability via a trade.
Lynch reportedly shot down all those asks.
Related Story: 49ers D-line depth prompting other teams to make trade inquiries
Defensive linemen Alex Barrett, Darrion Daniels and Eddie Yarbrough were the only ones let go at roster-cut time, and both Barrett and Daniels subsequently returned on the practice squad.
Kerr and Street, who were on the bubble when preseason started, both stayed safe.
Even more importantly, EDGE Jordan Willis (suspension) and defensive tackle Maurice Hurst (injured reserve) could potentially return to the squad later this season, forcing some more difficult decisions down the road but highlighting just how deep this particular unit is entering 2021.