8 Biggest Takeaways from the 49ers' First Depth Chart

The San Francisco 49ers released their first unofficial depth chart of the preseason. Since it is named unofficial and will change once the preseason starts, it is not the biggest piece of information. However, there are some notable pieces of information that can give us a baseline of what to expect.

What are the biggest highlights?

49ers first UNOFFICIAL depth chart is out for preseason opener Thursday vs Titans, who are here in Santa Clara today for joint practice pic.twitter.com/pIwakPL6qa
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 11, 2026

San Francisco 49ers Release Depth Chart

Robert Jones at Left Guard

Not only was Connor Colby not the starting left guard, but he was also listed at right guard, with Carver Willis backing up Robert Jones on the left side. Colby started training camp with the first-team, but appears to have already lost his spot.

Jordan James and Kaelon Black Tied

The team did not choose who their backup running back would be. Both were listed on the same line. This could be good for the rookie who typically starts from behind. Still, James has not been healthy and could make up ground when he does return.

Demarcus Robinson Up in 3-Wide Sets

Robinson went from roster bubble to potentially starting. He was listed ahead of Christian Kirk and De’Zhaun Stribling as the third receiver with Deebo Samuel and Mike Evans.

49er — USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

Drake Nugent Backup Center

Brett Toth was signed to fill the backup center role. He has been banged up, but the progression of Nugent might be the story. He is pushing Toth for the backup spot. Now, the question is whether Toth enters the left guard competition.

Gracen Halton Has To Climb Depth Chart

Halton is a rookie who has missed time. Still, it is notable that he is behind second-year lineman Sebastian Valdez. Valdez spent last year on the practice squad and is now trying to make a push for the roster. He has to hold off Halton and two rookie UDFAs, Bryson Eason and James Thompson.

Luke Gifford at SAM

Reports have been that Nick Martin has gotten work at the SAM. However, he was listed behind Dre Greenlaw as the WILL. Gifford was the starting SAM, with Jaden Dugger and Jalen Graham behind him. Their body types fit the role better than Martin.

No Major Secondary Shifts

The same five the team finished the season with are listed as starters. This is notable because the team brought in an influx of competition. Nate Hobbs is listed as the backup slot, so he is not pushing Renardo Green in the way that Jack Jones is.

Jacob Cowing Punt Return

Deebo Samuel is first-team on kick returns while Cowing is leading the punt return unit.

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