2023 San Francisco 49ers Defense

San Francisco climbed to second in rushing yards allowed (1,321). They gave up 3.4 yards per rush, with ball carriers scoring 11 touchdowns while averaging 22.9 carries per game.

The 49ers fell to 21st in passing yards allowed (3,789). Quarterbacks gained 6.9 yards per pass attempt with 20 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. Their defense finished with 44 sacks.

DE Nick Bosa has 34 sacks over his last 33 starts while adding 103 tackles and six forced fumbles. His run defense continues to be an edge. DE Drake Jackson only had rotational snaps in his rookie season after getting drafted in the second round in 2022. His pass rush shows potential while needing to improve his run defense. DT Javon Hargrave has a pocket full of cash and an improving resume. Over the last two years for the Eagles, he delivered 123 tackles and 18.5 sacks. His run defense has been below expectation in his time in Philadelphia. Javon Kinlaw and Arik Armstead have first-round pedigrees, but they missed multiple games last year.

LB Fred Warner posted more than 100 tackles in all five seasons with the 49ers. His run defense was the best of his career, but he allowed some big plays in coverage while chipping in the pass rush. LB Dre Greenlaw comes over his best year (127 tackles, one interception, and six defended passes). His value in run support has been an asset in back-to-back seasons. The other starting linebacking job is up for grabs.

CB Charvarius Ward is a sure tackler with strength in coverage. His value vs. the run was the best of his career. CB Deommodore Lenoir moved into the starting lineup in his second year with the 49ers. He made 79 tackles, but he allowed a high catch rate and many big plays. His pass coverage tightened up in the red zone. S Tashaun Gibson has 32 interceptions over 157 games, with five coming in his first season with San Fran. He finished as an elite player in run support while giving up some big plays. S Talanoa Hufanga was a neutral player in his first season with starting snaps. He gave up too many touchdowns despite allowing short yards per catch.

The defensive line sets the tone for the 49ers, highlighted by the play of Nick Bosa and Javon Hargrave. They also have a top player at the second and third levels of their defense. I expect a bump in sacks while holding offenses to low points. The 49ers are the top-ranked defense in the fantasy market in early July.