49ers Camp Takeaways: Another Stacked Roster Features Defensive Groups That Stand Out

49ers Camp Takeaways: Another Stacked Roster Features Defensive Groups That Stand Out

LA CLARA, California:How many more chances this San Francisco 49ers team will have to win a Lombardi Trophy is unknown. It’s clear that many people in this place feel compelled to make it happen after coming so close in February. What more did we witness and hear following our day-long visit with the defending NFC champions?

• The team’s defensive line, which has always been a strength, had some ups and downs last season, but it appears that this is being addressed. Nick Bosa is off to a great start in camp after attending more of the spring OTAs at Kyle Shanahan’s request. After enduring a lot last year, including the loss of close friend and former NFL player Chris Smith, Javon Hargrave is doing well now and has had a productive offseason. Maliek Collins appears to be a very wise addition. Overall, it appears that the group that has been dominant will once again be dominant.

• Charvarius Ward has appeared to be poised for a huge season throughout the offseason, in large part due to his decision to undergo surgery to treat a core issue he had been dealing with for four years following the Super Bowl. Ward has given the Niners a true No. 1 corner when he performs at his peak. And he should have a greater opportunity to be that more reliably now that he’s healthier.

• Kyle Shanahan, who witnessed De’Vondre Campbell’s rookie season in Atlanta, is not overly shocked by Campbell’s early-camp performance. He has had an impact for the Packers the last two years as well. However, it’s crucial because the team may have to wait a while to get Dre Greenlaw back at linebacker. Roughly speaking, the team hopes he returns between Weeks 6 and 8. They’ll also need to assign duties around middle linebacker Fred Warner in various personnel packages whenever Greenlaw returns. It will be a beneficial problem to have if Greenlaw and Campbell are both fit and doing well. If not, the depth of the team at that position might be put to the test.

• Trent Williams, who is aware that he is arguably the team’s most important player, is searching for a raise after witnessing Christian McCaffrey receive one. That’s obviously a significant story to follow. Dominick Puni, a third-round guard who is developing quickly, is another player on the offensive line who, at this rate, has a great chance to start. Puni has had the opportunity to work with the starting lineup over the last several days after right guard Spencer Burford suffered a fracture to his right hand. We’ll see if Burford regains his position after he recovers and if Puni is assigned to another position.

• There is no denying that this roster is full. Thus, “concerns” need to be encircled. However, with Talanoa Hufanga still recovering from an injury (he should be back on the field very soon) and Brandon Aiyuk’s contract predicament, the Niners would like to add some more depth at safety and receiver. The squad is happy that Deebo Samuel, who plays receiver, reported in excellent shape. After him, there will be opportunities for Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings, first-round pick Ricky Pearsall (who is recovering from his own injury), and fourth-round pick Jacob Cowing to secure meaningful roles. Ji’Ayir Brown had a great year in 2023 at safety, but the Niners will need some younger players to step up and take his place.