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49ers position battle: Can Mike Purcell supplant Tony Jerod-Eddie?

The San Francisco 49ers have quite the defensive line competition going on. Can Mike Purcell complete his climb from the practice squad this season?

The San Francisco 49ers are transitioning their defensive line this year, and the departures of Justin Smith and Ray McDonald open the door for plenty of opportunities. Quinton Dial, Ian Williams and Glenn Dorsey seem like the strongest candidates to start in the base defense, but the team has numerous other options competing for opportunities.

Coming out of the first preseason game, Mike Purcell did more than anybody on the defensive line to build his case for a roster spot.