49ers Depth Concerns: Five Players Who Signal Trouble

The 49ers have set their roster, but several players seeing significant action could indicate problems. Connor Colby, Enrique Cruz, Tatum Bethune, and others are depth options that fans hope stay on the bench. Their playing time would likely mean injuries to key starters.

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The 49ers' depth concerns center on offensive line and linebacker positions. Connor Colby lost his starting role last season after Spencer Burford returned, and the team's trade for Jarrett Patterson further pushed him down the depth chart. Enrique Cruz, a fifth-round pick, possesses impressive physical traits but showed in preseason he's not yet ready for NFL competition. The team kept him because his raw talent would attract poachers from the practice squad.

Tatum Bethune serves as the primary backup to All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, wearing the green dot communication helmet when Warner is absent. The team also faces injury concerns along the offensive line, with Austen Pleasants on injured reserve and Vederian Lowe recovering from an ankle sprain. Jacob Cowing and Siran Neal primarily contribute on special teams