Five 49ers who Need a Strong Performance Versus the Broncos

Week 1 of the preseason versus the Raiders was an ugly outing for the 49ers.

Despite the ugliness, there were some players who played well and are looking to the next game to build upon it. The same goes for those players who played poorly and need the next game to salvage their stock. Whether it is to make the roster or to establish a role on the field.

These are the five 49ers who need a strong performance versus the Broncos.

OL Ilm Manning

One player who caught my attention courtesy of TheSFNiners Brad Graham is offensive lineman Ilm Manning. He had himself a fairly solid outing against the Raiders last week. And while one rep doesn't tell the entire story, the rep below showcases some intriguing ability.

Alright we are officially on rookie GEM WATCH 💎

UDFA Ilm Manning clearly showing his technical fortitude early with a smooth set, intentionally keeps hands at side, adjusts hips/base upon contact and finished with the chop

*chefs kiss* pic.twitter.com/BDOsAqZI59
— Brad (@Graham_SFN) August 17, 2023

"Ilm’s really played very well this camp. And in the preseason game," offensive line coach Chris Foerster said. "He's played very well there. And you're right, he doesn't quite fit the prototype, but he's done a good job this preseason.”

The 49ers desperately need an offensive lineman to emerge from their depth. The second unit looked horrid all game against the Raiders, so if Manning can put together another inspiring outing against the Broncos, he could find himself locking in a roster spot and a possible future role.

CB Ambry Thomas

Initially on the outside looking in, Ambry Thomas has easily risen on the depth chart. He played admirably against the Raiders, and it is something that defensive coordinator Steve Wilks took account of.

"It was encouraging to see individuals do certain things," said Wilks. "Ambry, I thought did a tremendous job and some of the things that we saw on tape, particularly also during the game, coming up strong on that fourth-down play. And then having a PBU."

Thomas was the first corner Wilks cited with who he was impressed with. That likely means he is loving what he is seeing from Thomas. Momentum is on the side for him, so this next preseason game versus the Broncos needs to connect from his last one. He'll go from being a potential cut candidate to a player who can find himself on the field a lot.

WR Ronnie Bell

Seventh-round draft picks have to do so much to be considered for a roster spot. And even then, it is no lock they make the roster with tremendous play. Wide receiver Ronnie Bell finds himself in a tight battle to make the team, but also has a bit of fortune on his side. Ray-Ray McCloud's injury should open up a spot at the position.

“I think it's tight. Sometimes we keep five, usually we have, sometimes we keep six," said Kyle Shanahan. "Especially [WR] Ray-Ray [McCloud III] being hurt kind of opens some things up. So, it's going to be a tight race.”

After the solid performance Bell had versus the Raiders, he can make it incredibly tough on Shanahan if he builds upon it in the next game. Adding a bit of special teams value will increase his chances of making the team as well, which is something he didn't look good at last game.

CB Isaiah Oliver

When Isaiah Oliver was signed from the Falcons, he was expected to take over the starting nickel spot. Jimmie Ward and the 49ers couldn't find common ground; thus, Oliver came in to replace him. However, Oliver hasn't panned out like the 49ers had hoped. That became immediately apparent when he was playing an entire half in the first preseason game.

Shanahan has made it clear that it is an open competition at nickel corner, which means Oliver needs to impress and fast. He's clearly been a disappointment, and after his performance versus the Raiders, I can see why he has been. Oliver desperately needs a strong outing versus the Broncos or there's a strong chance he ruins his chance at being a starter.

QB Trey Lance

For a second week in a row, Trey Lance finds himself on this list. He'll continue to be until he showcases an impressive outing. What he put on display versus the Raiders was nothing positive. Of course, it was his first game since he injured his ankle in Week 2 of last season, so there isn't too much to be critical of with him.

However, he is in a competition to be the backup to Brock Purdy with Sam Darnold. Time and opportunity are running out for him. There are only two more preseason games, and this next one versus the Broncos might end up being a limited outing for him. He needs to make the most of his opportunity and fast.