Versatility is one of the traits the 49ers have valued highest during Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch’s tenure with the team. In recent years, they have found great success on the defensive line, in part through having depth pieces who can operate effectively off the edge and on the interior.
Yet with the Niners losing Arden Key and Charles Omenihu in successive offseasons, they now look light on defensive linemen who can fulfil those dual roles. Starting defensive tackle Arik Armstead can do so, but is undoubtedly best on the interior rather than at ‘big end’.