49ers pre-draft visits: Team to host Oregon DT Arik Armstead

The San Francisco 49ers are set to bring in a draft prospect that has inspired plenty of divided opinions. Matt Barrows is reporting the team will bring in Oregon defensive lineman Arik Armstead for a visit later this month. Armstead has been frequently mentioned in connection with the 49ers in mock drafts. He has the build to play on the 49ers defensive line, but he is still raw in his development.

The 49ers have shown some interest in a few defensive tackles, with Florida State's Eddie Goldman expected to make an official visit, as well as Division II prospect Tory Slater. The team also had dinner with Washington State DT Xavier Cooper, and GM Trent Baalke was on hand for Washington's Pro Day, where he likely caught a glimpse of Danny Shelton.

Defensive tackle is an interesting need for the 49ers. Or at least, I find it interesting. Whether or not Justin Smith has decided to retire, the team could very well decide they have the depth they need at this point. I think there is plenty of talent in the mix, but there are also a whole lot of question marks about them. Guys like Tank Carradine and Quinton Dial could break out in a big way, but they also could just end up not being the right fit. Whether or not Justin Smith returns, we'll find out more about Tank and Dial this year. If Smith returns, we'll see plenty of rotation along the line. If he retires, we'll obviously see more of them. Either way, this is make or break time for Tank and Dial.