Solomon Thomas discusses the importance of versatility

Apr 28, 2017 at 3:56 PM--


One of the perceived negatives about the San Francisco 49ers' newest defensive lineman, Solomon Thomas, has been his fit on the defense. While the bulk of his playing time at Stanford was in the interior, his ability to play on the edge, where he would be most valuable to the 49ers, is an unknown.

It is entirely likely that Thomas will play on the opposite side of the "Leo" spot, which is typically reserved for the team's best pass rusher, or inside at defensive tackle – or both. Thomas is confident that he is versatile enough to play anywhere the 49ers want to put him. The 49ers' top selection in the 2017 NFL Draft joined KNBR on Friday to discuss the importance of his versatility.

"I came in (to Stanford) thinking I was going to be an outside linebacker," Thomas said. "Played defensive end so I trained all my high school offseason to be an outside linebacker. Came in as a defensive end, played defensive end. Sophomore year, played nose guard and defensive tackle. Went back out to defensive end and kind of like a wide-9, wide-5 position sometimes as well.

"I've played up and down the line, whether it was a full season or a game. I've played everywhere on that line. That's what's huge to me, especially during this process again. I tried to make myself marketable to be an outside linebacker as well just to get teams to think I can do that as well. I can play anywhere on this d-line. I'm excited to play for these coaches and these players."

You can listen to the entire interview on KNBR, including the story of his heated Connect Four matches with former teammate Christian McCaffrey.



Facebook Comments



More San Francisco 49ers News


placeholder image

49ers' John Lynch provides Talanoa Hufanga update, discusses plan at safety

By David Bonilla
Mar 25

The San Francisco 49ers have been actively exploring options at safety this offseason, both in free agency and during their draft evaluations. A recent report from the San Francisco Chronicle indicated that All-Pro safety Talanoa Hufanga's starting position is not guaranteed for the upcoming season as he recovers from a torn ACL sustained on November 19, 2023. During a media session at the NFL owners meetings on Monday, general manager John Lynch shared an update on Hufanga's progress, noting that offseason roster additions could still occur. "Talanoa is doing really well. That's the great news," Lynch said of his young rehabbing safety. "He's rehabbing extremely well,


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,


placeholder image

No Huddle Podcast: What Are The 49ers' Plans For The Future?

By Site Staff
Mar 19

(Episode 322) — Al Sacco and Brian Renick react to the Zach Wilson rumors, what the 49ers should look for in QB2, negative Al speaks up, how the offensive side of the ball is complete for now, replacing all of the superstars will be a challenge, why the 49ers need to draft well this year and next, and more. Note: This episode was recorded before news of Josh Dobbs' signing. The audio for the show is embedded above. Remember to subscribe! You can listen to the latest "No Huddle Podcast" episode above, from our dedicated podcast page, on


Latest

Trending News

Share 49ersWebzone