The San Francisco 49ers have set their initial 53-man roster, but every football fan knows how many changes a roster endures over the course of a season. Injuries, poor performance, and numerous other factors will dictate who comprises that 53-man squad each week, which is why the practice squad is so important.
The Niners have set their initial practice squad, and there are a number of intriguing options who could potentially be elevated to the game-day roster. These three practice squad members could wind up playing an integral role at some point this season.
DT Kevin Givens
While Kevin Givens is not a household name, he’s been with the 49ers since 2019. He’s always been a solid depth piece as an interior defensive lineman, and there’s a pretty good chance they’re going to need him to fill that very role this season.
Right now the four main interior D-linemen are Alfred Collins, Osa Odighizuwa, C.J. West, and Gracen Halton. Both Collins and West struggled in the preseason, and it’s fair to assume injuries to the unit are inevitable. Givens will probably be the first guy the 49ers turn to if they need help in that department.
EDGE Ogbo Okoronkwo
The edge rusher position is a major question mark heading into the season. The healthiest rusher they have on the edge right now is Keion White, and he got shot in the ankle earlier this season.
Nick Bosa is a question mark; Mykel Williams and Sam Okuayinonu are going to miss a few weeks, and Romello Height is an unproven rookie who is dealing with his own ailments.
Okoronkwo is a solid veteran who could end up being leaned upon quite a bit if others get hurt or experience early struggles.
RB Sincere McCormick
One of San Francisco’s standouts during the preseason was running back Sincere McCormick. He played very well, and even though it was clear he wouldn’t earn a spot on the roster, the Niners were smart to retain his services.
While everyone hopes Christian McCaffrey will be as healthy as he was last season, there is no guarantee. Kaelon Black and Jordan James are both young and unproven, and James suffered a fractured rib during training camp. McCormick is a solid veteran option to have, just in case things don't go according to plan.
The Niners will have injuries this season. We know that much. The good news is they have some sneaky depth options on the practice squad. One can only hope they will be able to weather the storm when it inevitably arrives at their doorstep.
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