Awful to average? 49ers defense aiming to take leap

Aug 4, 2017 at 4:15 PM--


"Last year is last year," defensive tackle Arik Armstead said. In April, the 49ers added two first-round picks - defensive tackle Solomon Thomas and inside linebacker Reuben Foster - to a unit teeming with other high-end selections. [...] one of their myriad issues in 2016 was that many of those other first-rounders - Armstead, cornerback Jimmie Ward, safety Eric Reid and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner - didn't stay on the field. The quartet combined to miss 20 games during an injury filled season that saw their best player, All-Pro linebacker NaVorro Bowman, sustain a season-ending torn Achilles in Week 4. After ranking 19th in sacks, their defensive line could feature Armstead, Buckner and Thomas, with free-agent linebacker Elvis Dumervil, 33, who has 99 career sacks, coming off the edge in passing situations. Can Ward, who hasn't participated in training camp because of a hamstring injury, successful move to free safety, one of the most vital position in their scheme? Can Armstead, 6-foot-7 and 275 pounds, transition to playing the "Leo" position, the primary pass-rushing spot which is generally manned by smaller players? [...] can rookie defensive coordinator Robert Saleh,...
Click here to view the whole article
The above link leads to an external page. 49ers Webzone has no control over its contents.

Facebook Comments



More San Francisco 49ers News


placeholder image

49ers' George Kittle, Charvarius Ward underwent surgeries; Dre Greenlaw aiming for Week 1 return

By David Bonilla
Mar 25

According to general manager John Lynch, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward wasn't the sole player to undergo core muscle surgery this offseason. Lynch disclosed to reporters at the NFL owners meetings on Monday that All-Pro tight end George Kittle also had the procedure. However, the silver lining is that both players are expected to be fully cleared for training camp, set to commence at the end of July. George Kittle and Charvarius Ward both had core muscle surgery this offseason and will be back, fully cleared, for


placeholder image

49ers mailbag: What is Brandon Staley's role with the defense? Will SF add a starting safety? Thoughts on new hip-drop tackle rule?

By Marc Adams
23 hrs

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke with reporters on Tuesday at the NFL meetings in Orlando. He addressed multiple topics, from coaching moves, to new rules, to free agency additions and losses. On Monday, GM John Lynch met with the media and answered questions himself. So they have given us some things to discuss during the offseason. We opened the 49ers Webzone Mailbag this week to answer your questions. Some were related to the topics Shanahan and Lynch discussed. Others were not. Let's jump in and see what is on your mind. Do the 49ers add a starting safety? Who would be the best fit, and is Talanoa Hufanga's job safe? - Dave B. It wouldn't surprise me if the 49ers added another safety in free agency. In fact, I'd say it's


placeholder image

Charvarius Ward willing to help 49ers land Tre'Davious White

By David Bonilla
Mar 18

The San Francisco 49ers likely aren't finished fortifying their defense and have reportedly expressed interest in bolstering their defensive backfield. If they require assistance making a significant move, one 49ers player is prepared to lend a helping hand. Last week, the Buffalo Bills released All-Pro cornerback Tre'Davious White, who appears to be an ideal fit for San Francisco's needs opposite Charvarius Ward. Over the weekend, Ward took to social media to reveal that he and White share the same agent and that he is willing to nudge the free-agent defensive back in the right direction. Ward described White as a "hand in glove


placeholder image

49ers signing QB Josh Dobbs to a 1-year deal

By David Bonilla
Mar 18

The San Francisco 49ers are bolstering their quarterback room by adding a new player. According to his agent, Mike McCartney, the team is signing Josh Dobbs to a one-year deal. McCartney announced the news on social media, confirming the acquisition. Congrats @josh_dobbs1 agreeing to a 1 year deal with the @49ers— Mike McCartney (@MikeMcCartney7) March 18,


Latest

Trending News

Share 49ersWebzone