Eli’s Coming for Brooks’ Starting Linebacker Spot

Ahmad Brooks has been a big part of the 49ers defense for a long time.But now, after two preseason games this summer, his hold on a starting role as the team's strong-side linebacker (the SAM position) is no longer a lock. Third-year player Eli Harold is giving him a run for his money.Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters last week that Harold is pushing Brooks and has a chance to be the SAM starter, reported Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee. Brooks started the team's first exhibition game, while Harold started game No. 2.As the team heads into the third summer game Sunday night in Minnesota against the Vikings, the job is very much up for grabs.Shanahan told Barrows that Harold got off to a slow start in training camp because of a concussion, and also was slowed by a foot injury in spring workouts. But lately, Shanahan said Harold is playing very well.Noted Barrows: "Coaches particularly like how the former defensive end holds his ground against the run, which is a strong-side linebacker's primary responsibility."The 49ers also are taking a long look at Dekoda Watson at the SAM spot, which is a prime pass-rushing position, too."It took Eli a little bit to get going,"...