San Francisco 49ers Battles to Look Ahead To This Offseason
Phase 3 of the 49ers offseason workout program is slated to begin on Monday. While the entire squad was allowed to participate in phase 2, attack and defense could not work against each other.
That will change when the team takes to the field on Monday. While much attention is paid to the quarterback position, let’s take a look at three more battles to look forward to as the off-season progresses.
1. Run back
The 49ers typically have five running backs on their active roster. One of them will be Kyle Juszcyk, which means that one of the halfbacks – Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr., Trey Sermon, Elijah Mitchell or JaMycal Hasty – will look inside from the outside.
The running back room has moved a bit this off-season, with the focus on larger backs. It will be interesting to see how this talented group develops over the coming months.
2. Ambry Thomas & Deommodore Lenoir versus Brandon Aiyuk & Deebo Samuel
The 49ers put in a draft pick for Thomas and Lenoir in the third and fifth rounds. One of the strengths for both newbies is their ability to play close man-to-man coverage. Thomas and Lenoir did well during the 49ers Rookie Mini Camp, but this will be their first real test.
Aiyuk has the potential to be a true # 1 recipient, and Samuel is one of the most physical recipients in the NFL. If the newbies are able to hold their own, it could be a good sign of depth in secondary school.
3. Aaron Banks versus Arik Armstead
The 6’5 ”, 338 pound banks were dominant during his tenure at Notre Dame. Banks are rarely pushed back into passport protection and Armstead is very strong, especially when rushing into it. If you watch these two play one on one you will likely have to wait for the pads to light up during training camp, but it will be a fun struggle to watch.
