49ers vs. Packers: 5 must-watch storylines for 2022 preseason opener

49ers vs. Packers storyline No. 2: Order in which players rotate in

The 49ers released their first unofficial depth chart of the season, and there weren’t too many surprises:

Again, “unofficial” is a key term here, and Kyle Shanahan also mentioned he has nothing to do with this first depth chart.

Although it is loosely based on observations from training camp, who’s lining up with first- and second-string units, and so on.

However, make note of how players are rotating in on game day. While the Niners are expected to rest a good chunk of their star players, seeing who winds up beginning the game in the stead of someone like, let’s say, wide receiver Deebo Samuel will reveal who’s likely favored towards the top of the roster.

On the flip side, of all the players who are taking the field during the fourth quarter, it’s likely only two or three of those wind up making San Francisco’s 53-man roster, too.

Player rotations and seeing who is lining up with each string can give some vital insight into Shanahan’s thinking.