49ers Roundtable: 5 Questions on the Upcoming Season

2. Which rookie will have the greatest impact this season?

Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Nikhil Ramgiri: Jimmie Ward without a doubt. Carlos Hyde proved in the preseason that he is the heir to Frank Gore, but the nickel cornerback position is a crucial piece of the 49er defense, and Ward will get plenty of opportunities to make plays there.

Jason Fierros: Carlos Hyde. He will be able to strengthen the running back spot behind Frank Gore, who didn’t much help with that last year.

Sam Churich: Carlos Hyde. He will have to step in right away and produce at a high level.

David Ochoa: The only rookie that will be starting, Jimmie Ward. The 49ers drafted Ward to cover the slot, and the 49ers will be facing a lot of elite slot receivers this season.

Marc Grandi: There will be two rookies that have large impacts this year. Both Carlos Hyde (Frank Gore’s backup) and Bruce Ellington (wide receiver and return man) will see plenty of the field. Hyde will have more of an impact because of the lack of depth at running back and the number of receivers ahead of Ellington on the depth chart. However, both teams will impact the 49ers greatly and will be a big part of another successful season for San Francisco.

Maggie Pilloton: Carlos Hyde. With Kendall Hunter out for most likely the entire season, Hyde will have to step up as the primary backup behind Frank Gore.