The San Francisco 49ers placed defensive tackle Arik Armstead on injured reserve Tuesday afternoon, and that is leading to a shuffle on the defensive line. Head coach Chip Kelly met with the media on Wednesday, and he provided some insight into what Armstead’s absence means for the line.
Quinton Dial has been getting nose tackle work, but the plan is to move him back out to defensive end. Glenn Dorsey and Mike Purcell will split time at nose tackle. Purcell was inactive this past week, and had seen his snap totals declining the past few weeks. It would seem Armstead’s injury will result in a second chance for Purcell.
DeForest Buckner will remain the other defensive end in the team’s base. Ronald Blair, Tony Jerod-Eddie, and new addition Chris Jones (claimed off waivers on Tuesday) will all get some opportunities as well. When the team switches to their nickel, we see the defensive ends move inside to the two defensive tackle spots. We will see plenty of rotation there as well.