As we work our way through the defense, we come to the most veteran unit on the team which may need the most leadership, to counter-act the lack of experience.
Previously:
- The Special Teams Grade: B
- The Defensive Backs Grade: B-
- The Linebackers Grade: B+
Up Next: The Defensive Line
Grade: C
The unquestioned leader of this unit, the defense in general, and probably the team, is 14 year 49er Bryant Young, (right). In probably his final season, "B.Y." is the final link to the Niners' glory years as his rookie season of '94 culminated in the 49ers last Super Bowl win. Young lead the D' line with 5 1/2 sacks in '06 but will probably see less snaps this year to keep him fresh for key situations. Next to Young, is space eater and run stuffer, Marques Douglas,(below). While technically playing defensive end, Douglas is less of a pass-rusher and more of a contain lineman that can keep a ball carrier from getting to the edge. Douglas' work ethic match that of Young and set a great example for the youngsters.Those youngsters include a group of second year players in Ronald Fields, Roderick Green, Parys Haralson, a fine pass rusher in the making, Melvin Oliver and '07 third rounder Ray McDonald. All will fight for available defensive end time behind Douglas and Young.
Finally, up the middle, the 49ers have a space eating nose tackle that has the size to stuff the run. Aubrayo Franklin, who played under Mike Nolan at Baltimore, has the girth and toughness to be an anchor up the middle. He is a substantial upgrade over undersized Anthony Adams, departed in free agency to Chicago. Franklin will be spelled at times by 4th year widebody, Isaac Sopoaga.
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