San Francisco 49ers: Position Battles Highlight Preseason Opener

Nose Tackle

Jan 7, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman

(90) prior to the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2013 BCS Championship game at Sun Life Stadium. Alabama won 42-14. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

San Francisco will be without all-pro inside linebackerNaVorro Bowmanfor at least the first half of the season. They will miss outside linebackerAldon Smithfor any number of games (probably somewhere between four and eight games) due to an impending suspension. As if that wasn’t enough, nose tackleGlenn Dorseytore his bicep and likely willmiss the entire season.

The 49ers do have a few options to replace Dorsey at nose tackle, though. The first choice isQuinton Dial— who won a BCS National Championship with Alabama in 2013.

Dial was selected in that summer’s draft but struggled to find consistent playing time because of an injury suffered while at Alabama.

Raising Zona

Ian Williamswas the starter last season until he broke his ankle and suffered ligament damage in week two versus Seattle. He has not fully recovered yet and no timetable has been set for his return.

For now, it seems as if the starting job is Dial’s to lose. Other options includeTony Jerod-EddieandMike Purcell.

Jerod-Eddie filled in nicely forJustin SmithandRay McDonaldlast season. He will be used there again this year in order to keep both Smith and McDonald fresh and healthy for yet another playoff run.

San Francisco has owned one of the league’s best rushing defenses over the past few seasons. If they want that trend to continue, Dial and others need to step up.

Thursday night’s game against Baltimore would be a good stepping stone for many of the young defensive linemen.

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