The San Francisco 49ers are into their first game of the 2017 preseason, and that means we get the first game release. Most notable is that the 49ers released their first depth chart of the preseason. The depth chart is compiled by the 49ers communications department, and while there is usually some coach input, it is still a projection by the PR team.
Rookie linebacker Reuben Foster is listed as the first team weak side linebacker, ahead of Ray-Ray Armstrong. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said that Armstrong would get a chance at first team reps as well, so that is worth a note.
Dontae Johnson is currently listed as the starting cornerback opposite Rashard Robinson. That’s not surprising as he has been getting first team reps regularly throughout camp. Keith Reaser and Ahkello Witherspoon are the primary second-team guys.
Vance McDonald and George Kittle are listed as the first two tight ends for the time being, with Logan Paulsen listed ahead of both Garrett Celek and Blake Bell. I am really curious to see how that looks when the Chiefs game gets going.
This is great for discussion and bouncing around ideas, but again, it’s compiled by the 49ers communication staff, and not the coaching staff.
Unofficial 49ers depth chart time! pic.twitter.com/V5r3SHKIM9
— Niners Nation (@NinersNation) August 8, 2017