The 49ers are navigating the first part of training camp without star defensive end Nick Bosa. Bosa’s absence due to ongoing negotiations for a long-term contract extension forced San Francisco on Wednesday to dig into their defensive end depth chart. Wednesday’s practice gave some insight into what the team has happening at an important position along the defensive line.
Drake Jackson occupied one of the starting spots, which he’s expected to do throughout camp. The 2022 second-round pick had a disappointing end to his rookie year where was a healthy scratch for five of the last six games including all three playoff contests. Now he’s in better shape though and hoping to rebound from a rough first NFL season.
On the opposite side of Jackson with the starting unit were free agent signees Austin Bryant and Clelin Ferrell, per ESPN’s Nick Wagoner.
Bryant and Ferrell are both interesting additions for a 49ers club that’s made a habit of squeezing untapped production from veteran defensive linemen. In an ideal world for San Francisco, both players would be rotational pieces off the bench.
However, with a question mark hovering above Jackson, it’s not out of the question that one of that pair winds up starting and playing a significant role.
It’ll be worth watching how they divvy up reps once Bosa returns, and whether another DE like rookie Robert Beal Jr. or veteran Darryl Johnson get into the mix at all for regular rotation snaps.
Based on Wednesday though the three on track for significant roles are Jackson, Ferrell and Bryant. If that trio can find ways to be productive, the 49ers defensive line should quickly become the deepest and best in the NFL.
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