The San Francisco 49ers have been rotating defensive players all around trying to find the right combination, and we got another option on Saturday vs. the Denver Broncos. The 49ers rolled out some adjustments reflecting a mix of injuries and returning players.
The big return was Michael Wilhoite, who had been on the NFI list with a muscle strain. He is starting next to NaVorro Bowman. The big departure is Ahmad Brooks, who went back to California following his sexual battery charge. The team started Eli Harold and Corey Lemonier at outside linebacker.
Tramaine Brock is out with a hamstring strain, and the starting lineup featured Keith Reaser and Kenneth Acker. Dontae Johnson came on when the 49ers went into the nickel. Aaron Lynch got some time in the nickel. I did not see Jaquiski Tartt right away, but it appears he joined in on the team's 3rd and long dime defense.
The defensive line appears to be set. Ian Williams is at nose tackle, with Glenn Dorsey and Quinton Dial surrounding him. That has been viewed as the number one line, and nothing has changed.