NFL Futures: Top 49ers Players in Preseason Opener

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The San Francisco 49ers‘ preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans is set to provide valuable insights into the team’s depth and development, especially among some of its younger and less established players that will impact 2024-2025’s NFL Futures.

While most of the team’s starters, including Brock Purdy, George Kittle, and Nick Bosa, will sit this one out, there are five players who stand out as must-watch during Saturday’s game.

OL Dominick Puni

A rookie offensive lineman has been making waves during training camp. Puni, who transferred from Division II Central Missouri to Kansas and didn’t allow a single sack over two years, is expected to see significant action in the preseason opener. 

He’s been taking first-team reps at right guard and has shown promise in one-on-one drills, particularly pass protection. Puni’s performance is critical as the 49ers look to improve their right-side offensive line, which has been problematic throughout Kyle Shanahan’s tenure as head coach. If Puni continues to impress, he could be in line for a starting role in 2024.

LB Dee Winters

Linebacker Dee Winters, entering his second year in the NFL, has emerged as a promising force on the 49ers’ defense. Originally a safety in high school, Winters transitioned into a blitzing linebacker at TCU and has continued developing his professional skills.

Star linebacker Fred Warner praised Winters for having the best OTA period of any player on the roster, setting the stage for a strong training camp. Winters has excelled in coverage drills, even knocking the ball away from Christian McCaffrey in one-on-one coverage, which is no small feat. 

With Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles sidelined due to injury, Winters has had the opportunity to take some first-team reps, where he has continued to impress and improve the NFL futures. The preseason opener will offer a critical gauge of his progress, particularly in live tackling situations.

RB Cody Schrader

Cody Schrader, a running back out of Missouri, will be under the microscope as the 49ers evaluate his ability to break live-action tackles. Schrader led the SEC in rushing in 2023, earning a reputation as a tough, bruising runner despite not being the most significant back on the field. 

His running style has drawn comparisons to former 49ers back Jeff Wilson Jr., and his position coach, Bobby Turner, is eager to see how Schrader’s physical approach translates to the NFL level. Saturday’s game will be a crucial test for Schrader as he looks to make a case for a spot on the roster.

DE Robert Beal Jr.

Robert Beal Jr., a second-year edge rusher, is vying for the fourth and final defensive end spot on the 49ers’ roster. Known for his speed — having run a 4.48-second 40-yard dash at 247 pounds before entering the NFL — Beal has bulked up to around 260 pounds to defend the run better. Despite the added weight, he’s retained his burst, making him a potential problem for opposing offensive lines. 

Beal delivered an impressive practice on Thursday, registering two would-be sacks. His size and speed could also make him a valuable contributor on special teams. His performance on Saturday will be crucial in his bid to secure a roster spot.

CB Renardo Green

Rookie cornerback Renardo Green has not hesitated to take on challenges during his first NFL training camp. Coming out of Florida State, Green has consistently battled strong receivers like Jauan Jennings and has even seen some first-team action with veteran cornerback Isaac Yiadom missing practice. 

Green’s versatility, showcased by his ability to play both outside and in the slot, has been a focus for the 49ers since OTAs. With both starting cornerbacks, Deommodore Lenoir and Charvarius Ward, Green can position himself as a future starter in the final year of their contracts. The preseason opener will be a critical moment for him to build momentum and contribute to improving the team’s NFL futures.