Niners May Have Big Hole in 3-4 Defense
New 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula and defensive end Justin Smith have a good relationship, having worked together since Smith came over from the Bengals for the 2008 season.So when the two of them get together soon to discuss Smith's future – or, as Tomsula told reporters, to "shoot the baloney" – it will have an enormous impact on what the Niners do in the draft and free agency.If Smith decides to retire, the 49ers suddenly will have gaping holes at both defensive end spots. Smith's departure would follow the release of Ray McDonald because of off-the-field issues.And, Tomsula told the media at the NFL Combine in recent days that the 49ers are sticking with the 3-4 defensive alignment – and not switching to the 4-3 as had been surmised by some."The schematics on defense, the 3-4, our personnel is set for that and we'll continue that way," Tomsula said.If Smith decides to walk away, the 49ers might be tempted to use their top pick in the first round – the 15th overall – on a defensive lineman or outside linebacker to fit the 3-4 scheme. Even if Smith stays, the team will need to add depth at some point because of McDonald's departure. But if Smith also...
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