The Dolphins recently released two defensive linemen to salvage space under their salary cap – former no. 1 overall pick Mario Williams and the far less known Earl Mitchell. The 49ers undoubtedly looked at both players and opted for the workman-like Mitchell over the splashier Williams.
The choice of the run plugging Mitchell over the rapidly declining Williams may indicate the type of operation new head coach Kyle Shanahan and new general manager John Lynch want to run. They want steady, high character players over those who make bigger headlines.
“As soon as Earl hit the open market, he became a priority for us to sign,” Lynch said in a statement.