Offseason strides to rebuild the 49ers defense’s confidence and personnel now ratchet up with training camp. After allowing more points and rushing yards in franchise history last season, that defense needs to quickly mesh under new coordinator Robert Saleh.
Much of the focus remains on linebacker NaVorro Bowman’s comeback, as well as the uncertain health of his perceived protégé, Reuben Foster, whose repaired shoulder will get its first test in contact drills.
Elsewhere, top draft picks decorate the defensive line and unproductive holdovers are looking to regain credibility. Here is how the defense looks heading into Thursday’s reporting date for training camp at the 49ers’ Santa Clara facility:
Defensive line (11): *Arik Armstead, *DeForest Buckner, *Solomon Thomas, *Earl Mitchell, Chris Jones, Tank Carradine, Quinton Dial, Ronald Blair, D.