Five 49ers Could See Their Roles Shrink After the Bye
On November 3, five San Francisco 49ers were identified as candidates for reduced playing time after the team’s bye week, as injured players return and competition for spots increases.
The San Francisco 49ers could reshuffle playing time after their bye, with returning players and a healthier roster putting pressure on five current contributors. The possible changes range from fewer snaps to being left off the active roster on game days.
Connor Colby is not expected to lose his starting job immediately, but his recent performances have raised concerns. Rookie Carver Willis, who played tackle in college, could be better prepared to compete after using the bye week to adjust. Jacob Cowing’s opportunities may also dwindle as Deebo Samuel and Mike Evans are expected back, while Demarcus Robinson could return soon. Christian Kirk is healthy and could challenge Cowing for punt-return duties.
On defense, Sebastian Valdez may slide down the rotation after the 49ers acquired DeForest Buckner and James Thompson returned to health. That could leave Valdez at risk of being inactive. Ji’Ayir Brown has started every game, but Malik Mustapha and Marques Sigle have played better, and Sigle could take a starting spot when he returns from injury.
Keion White could also face a smaller role. Mike Williams is healthy and playing more, Nick Bosa is expected back after the bye, and rookie Romello Height has begun contributing more. With those three ahead of him, White could become the fourth option in the rotation.
Players: Mike Evans, DeForest Buckner, Demarcus Robinson, Christian Kirk, Nick Bosa, Deebo Samuel Sr., Ji'Ayir Brown, Keion White, Malik Mustapha, Jacob Cowing, Marques Sigle, Connor Colby, Sebastian Valdez, Carver Willis, James Thompson Jr., Romello Height