One of the major changes the San Francisco 49ers will implement this season is a shift from a 3-4 to a 4-3 base scheme.
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, a pupil of former Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator and Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Gus Bradley, is looking to copy the same sort of 4-3 hybrid the Seahawks have ran, defensively, the past few seasons.
This type of scheme calls for a 4-3 look but employing 3-4 personnel. It’s not new to the NFL, but it’s something the Niners figure will best utilize the available personnel on the roster.
San Francisco has invested heavily in its defensive line the past few seasons.