The interior of the defensive line has unquestionably been a strength of the 49ers’ roster during Kyle Shanahan’s tenure. However, for the second time in three seasons, it will have to combat a significant loss to prosper in 2022.
D.J. Jones’ departure in free agency was not as seismic as the DeForest Buckner trade in 2020, yet it leaves the Niners with a sizeable hole to fill in the middle of their defense.
San Francisco does not lack pass rushers on the interior, but Jones played a critical role in stopping the run for the 49ers while also serving as an underrated pocket pusher.
Identifying the player best placed to take on those responsibilities at nose tackle is the 49ers’ primary concern on the interior of the defensive front, and the obvious leading candidate is a player who needs to take advantage of the potential opportunity to spark his pro career into life.
Ahead of the start of training camp next month, we break down a position group that will once again be key to the Niners’ hopes of success in 2022.