The defensive line has been the backbone of the John Lynch-Kyle Shanahan regime. For years, that unit carried the team. Last year, the offense took their game to unseen levels, which ultimately masked some injury issues along the defensive front.
Heading into 2024, the San Francisco 49ers had to decide whether it was worth the risk of Arik Armstead playing an entire season. A year older with another injury at that price factored into the decision to release Armstead. The loss of Javon Hargrave meant the 49ers would be busy during free agency.
In the upcoming season, Javon Hargrave will be joined by two new defensive tackles, Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliott.