Updating 49ers Position Battles for 53-Man Roster

This is an important week for the Niners fighting to earn a spot on the active roster. The joint practices with the Las Vegas Raiders will be held on Thursday and Friday offering an opportunity to stand out. Kyle Shanahan said on NFL Network, “We’re much more into the scrimmages than the games.”

Quarterback: The Kirk Cousins Invitational

If the quarterback play continues as is, Cousins will be signed as next year’s starter. Brock Purdy can’t drive the deep sideline ball, Trey Lance has improved but not to the point of taking the starting job.

The Niners have struggled in evaluation at quarterback so adding a proven commodity makes sense. Seven years in, Kyle Shanahan still doesn’t have his franchise quarterback. Maybe Purdy or Lance can become that, but they only have this year to make their case.

Running Back: Khalan Laborn vs. The Waiver Wire and Trades
Ty Davis-Price has earned a running back slot, leaving Laborn fifth in a competition for four slots. Laborn has played well with limited snaps, he can be a backup with starter upside for several other clubs. With Elijah Mitchell injured yet again, maybe the Niners keep Laborn and deal Mitchell, but Shanahan is a big fan of Mitchell’s decisive running and lack of fumbles. I expect he’ll keep him. That leaves the team hoping Laborn isn’t claimed off waivers.

Wide Receiver: Danny Gray and Ronnie Bell vs. Options
Gray has stood out in camp after developing his body, expanding his route tree, and making a few catches with just his hands. Bell is technically solid with great hands, I think it would be a mistake to cut him.

The Niners could keep six receivers or deal Jauan Jennings, they have options, it comes down to Shanahan’s valuation of Bell. Several teams are desperate for receivers after early injuries. Bell, Chris Conley, Willie Snead, and Tay Martin could all make the rosters of other teams.

Offensive Line: Leroy Watson vs. The Waiver Wire
Watson the converted tight end has the feet for tackle but needs development time. The Niners' offensive line has struggled in 11-on-11 pass protection at camp, they clearly need a talent upgrade and may have to go shopping in trade or the waiver wire.

Defensive Line: Lots of Options vs. The Waiver Wire
The Niners are living dangerously on both lines, lacking quality depth at offense tackle and edge. Proven options still exist for late signings in free agency at defensive end, or they can wait for talent to fall in final cuts on the waiver wire. Either way, an outside source of talent may be needed.

Austin Bryant played well on his first day back, but he beat a possible cutdown target in Matt Pryor. Shanahan wants to see how players respond in situations and that creates a chance for backup edges to shine in the Raider scrimmages.

Linebacker: Defense vs. Special Teams
I’d have Marcelino McCrary-Ball and Dee Winters competing to start. That leaves vet Demetrius Flanagan-Fowles, special teams ace Oren Burks, and promising rookie Jalen Graham competing for two slots. Special teams play could decide who survives the final cuts.

Secondary: Special Teams Once More
Darrell Luter Jr. on the Physically Unable To Perform list opens a slot and some time, but when he returns difficult choices will have to be made. D’Shawn Jamison is winning over his teammates and coaches, he could help his cause if he also gets a chance to return kicks.

George Odum should make it on his special teams success, which can lead to late cuts for Qwuantrezz Knight and Myles Hartsfield. An unknown factor is if the number of slots at a position could shift over last year to meet the preferences of new defensive coordinator Steve Wilks.