49ers snap count vs. Washington: Brock Coyle sees an uptick in work

The San Francisco 49ers were without linebacker Reuben Foster for a fifth straight game, and also played without fullback Kyle Juszczyk against Washington. The snap count from the game reflects some notable changes because of that (gamebook PDF).

The big change was Brock Coyle moving into the starting lineup. The 49ers released NaVorro Bowman, and with Reuben Foster inactive, Coyle got the call. He and Jimmie Ward played every single snap of the game. Linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong played 82 percent of snaps, and it was just a handful of defensive snaps for reserve linebackers Elijah Lee and Mark Nzeocha.

We can sum this up best by saying that Brock Coyle was not particularly good at his job. Ray Ray Armstrong struggled as well, proving to be a very hit or miss linebacker. The 49ers defense needs Reuben Foster back in a big way. My guess is we see him this coming Sunday against Dallas.

On the offensive side of the ball, the 49ers were without fullback Kyle Juszczyk. They promoted Cole Hikutini from the practice squad to add to their tight end depth, but he only saw two offensive snaps. George Kittle played 92 percent of offensive snaps, which I believe is a season high for him. Garrett Celek 42 percent of snaps, which is similar to last week. There is no word yet on Juszcyzk’s availability for Week 7.

It is interesting to note that Solomon Thomas led the team’s defensive linemen in snaps. He played 92 percent of defensive snaps, finishing with seven more snaps than DeForest Buckner. Arik Armstead left with a hand injury, which likely led to the increased workload for Thomas.

Here’s the full Week 6 snap count.