Patrick Willis might've convinced 49ers to give Jaden Dugger a bigger role

Rookie linebacker Jaden Dugger has been one of the more promising components of the San Francisco 49ers' 2026 NFL Draft class, and the versatile backer has flashed plenty of promise over the three exhibition games this preseason.

And in the Niners' preseason finale versus the Las Vegas Raiders, Dugger made quite an impression on a San Francisco legend, Hall of Famer Patrick Willis.

Certainly, Willis has a vested interest in the 49ers' linebacking corps. And while the gold-jacketed fan-favorite's comparisons with current Niners star backer Fred Warner is entertaining, Willis certainly appreciates what the fresh-faced Dugger might have to offer.

While watching San Francisco's exhibition tilt versus Vegas, Willis posted the following on X:

Referring to 49ers linebackers coach K.J. Wright, Willis seems to grasp how Dugger might be utilized in coordinator Raheem Morris' defense.

Patrick Willis' endorsement of Jaden Dugger increases his 49ers stock value

One of the elements of Dugger's game is serving as an outside rusher, which could free him up from the logjam in the interior behind Warner, Dre Greenlaw and Tatum Bethune. In this regard, Dugger's impact should be more immediate, and it'll result in getting more snaps.

No doubt, Willis took notice of the below play on which Dugger rushed Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza from the outside, nearly sacking him before a last-ditch pass:

Considering the Niners lack proven pass-rushers from the edge behind Nick Bosa, having someone like Dugger who can create pressure from various spots on the field should help Morris in a variety of ways.

Especially if the rookie is successful in doing so.

Granted, Dugger is far from a finished product, and those mistakes were visible during the Las Vegas game, too. He missed two tackles during the contest, and that won't necessarily bode well for an expanded role right out of the gate.

However, Willis and others can certainly see what Dugger should be able to offer, provided he's able to improve upon his shortcomings while honing his positive traits.

If Willis is correct, and San Francisco continues to put the rookie into situations that benefit him, Dugger's stock should continue to rise, indeed.

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