"Each team we check in with has the starters in base packages alongside a select group of players who are likely to be key contributors in a rotation, sub-package, or as competition in training camp for some incumbent starters," said Ben Stockwell of Pro Football Focus. "The 49ers allowed 5.13 yards per carry in sub packages last season, the fourth-worst mark in the NFL."
The advanced analytics site listed DE DeForest Buckner, NT Ian Williams, DE Quinton Dial, OLB Aaron Lynch, OLB Ahmad Brooks, ILB NaVorro Bowman, and ILB Gerald Hodges as the team's projected starters.
They also listed DE Arik Armstead, DE Glenn Dorsey, OLB Eli Harold, OLB Corey Lemonier, and ILB Michael Wilhoite as other names to know.
"Led by Ian Williams, the 49ers' base run defense is in safe hands, but they allowed nearly 2 yards per carry more in sub-packages than base, the biggest drop-off in the league last year," explained Stockwell. "While the addition of Buckner to pair with former Oregon teammate Arik Armstead adds to their interior pass-rush, the 49ers' sub-package run-D has to raise its game in 2016, Williams is the key to the 49ers' run defense, and teams can remove him from the equation without blocking him, simply by forcing San Francisco into their nickel and dime defenses. Another year removed from a devastating knee injury, San Francisco will hope that NaVorro Bowman can be close to his old self in coverage after he allowed the most yards and broke up the fewest passes in a single season since he entered the starting lineup last year."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers vs. Browns PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 9-4 after a 26-8 win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 13. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers: Offense George... -
49ers roster moves: Practice squad tweaks signal Eddy Piñeiro's return
The San Francisco 49ers have signed wide receiver Javon Baker to the practice squad, adding depth to their receiving corps. To make room, the team released kicker Matt Gay and quarterback Adrian Martinez from the practice squad. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler first reported the news of... -
49ers' Shanahan still hopes Aiyuk returns this season—but isn't counting on it
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch didn't sound particularly optimistic Tuesday morning when discussing wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's chances of returning this season. Appearing on Bay Area radio station KNBR, Lynch emphasized that while he remains hopeful, he can't... -
49ers' Brock Purdy may have a request for Mac Jones, explains sideline arm brace
Last year, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy surprised his offensive linemen with Toyota vehicles—an extravagant gesture considering he had not yet signed his lucrative contract extension. Of course, Purdy was an endorsement partner for Toyota at the time, meaning...