Gregg Rosenthal breaks down 49ers’ starters, identifies Ricky Pearsall’s role
“The defensive line has a different vibe,” Rosenthal noted. “The 49ers went hard on solid mid-level veterans who can soak up snaps, signing Leonard Floyd, Maliek Collins, Jordan Elliott and Yetur Gross-Matos. Beyond Nick Bosa and Javon Hargrave, the group is not as flashy as it once was.”
“Ward received his best-ever overall grade from PFF last season and allowed a paltry 63.7 passer rating when targeted. He was one of the NFL’s best CBs without question.