With the Rams, 49ers, Chargers and Raiders all offering compelling storylines and the promise of the playoffs, 2018 is shaping up to be the most anticipated season ever for pro football in California. The MMQB’s Andy Benoit is diving into those storylines for our special offseason project: California Week. Check back regularly for more.
One of the most enjoyable discussions making its way through NFL circles last offseason was: How would new 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh use his defensive linemen? After the selection of Stanford’s Solomon Thomas third overall in the 2017 draft, Saleh had a nearly unheard of three first-round D-linemen under the age of 24: Arik Armstead (23), DeForest Buckner (23) and Thomas (21).