49ers roster bubble watch in the wake of preseason win vs. Packers
By Peter Panacy
49ers roster bubble after beating Packers: Offensive line
Lock: Aaron Banks, Jake Brendel, Daniel Brunskill, Spencer Burford, Mike McGlinchey, Trent Williams
Strong bubble: Colton McKivitz, Jaylon Moore, Jason Poe*, Keaton Sutherland
Weak bubble: Dohnovan West*, Jordan Mills, Justin Skule, Nick Zakelj*
Long shot: Alfredo Gutierrez, Sam Schlueter*
Far more interesting than the 49ers’ linebacker situation and comparable to rookie developments at cornerback, the Niners saw a number of first-year pros make some positive impressions against Green Bay.
In particular, rookie Spencer Burford played a notable 27 snaps after starting at right guard, recording multiple pancakes of defenders and appearing as if he’s all but locked down the starting gig heading into the regular season.
Likewise, Burford’s replacement later in the game, undrafted free-agent Jason Poe, was solid enough in the second half to suggest his roster chances improved slightly.
Daniel Brunskill, who is vying for both the right guard and center positions, suffered a hamstring strain after just one snap and will be out a few weeks, opening up the chance for fellow undrafted rookie Dohnovan West to hang around a little longer.
He and fellow rookie Nick Zakelj have to show some serious improvement, though.