TE George Kittle listed as starter in 49ers-Panthers depth chart

San Francisco 49ers rookie tight end George Kittle is listed as a starter ahead of Garrett Celek in the team's unofficial Week 1 depth chart against the Carolina Panthers. Celek is the only remaining player from last season within the tight end group following the trade of Vance McDonald to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the release of Blake Bell.

As expected, rookie linebacker Reuben Foster is listed as the starting Will linebacker next to NaVorro Bowman, who is at the Mike spot. Dontae Johnson is listed as the starting cornerback across from Rashard Robinson while K'Waun Williams is the nickel corner.

Jimmie Ward, who did not play in the preseason as he recovered from a hamstring injury, is listed as the defense's starting free safety. Rookie Lorenzo Jerome, who was a preseason standout, is his backup.

Recently acquired defensive lineman Xavier Cooper, who was claimed off of waivers from the Cleveland Browns, is listed as DeForest Buckner's backup at the right defensive tackle spot. Arik Armstead is shown as the starter at the Leo spot with veteran Elvis Dumervil as his backup and former top edge defender Aaron Lynch buried on the depth chart.

Of course, nothing is set in stone as depth charts are unofficial and subject to changes as the games approach.