NFL San Francisco 49ers

5 Changes the San Francisco 49ers Need to Make for the 2015 Season

Changes the San Francisco 49ers Need to Make for the 2015 Season

49ers Defense
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Prior to 2014, the San Francisco 49ers were one of the elite teams in the NFL. To return to that caliber, the team must make several adjustments heading into the 2015 campaign. Here are five changes the 49ers should make for next season.

5. Reshuffle Offensive Line

49ers Offensive Line
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5. Reshuffle Offensive Line

49ers Offensive Line
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Prior to last season, the offensive line was a dominant unit that asserted its will against the opposing defenses. In 2014, the line was hit hard by injury, and failed to develop continuity. Mike Iupati will likely not be re-signed, so starting center Daniel Kilgore could move to guard to battle Joe Looney and Brandon Thomas, while Marcus Martin will become the permanent center. Also, Alex Boone should be the top backup at tackle.

4. Find Established Kick/Punt Returner

Trindon Holliday
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4. Find Established Kick/Punt Returner

Trindon Holliday
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Since Ted Ginn Jr. departed, the 49ers have lacked an explosive threat in the return game. Although Bruce Ellington could develop into a solid receiver, he didn’t show enough as a returner to warrant job security in that area. Former Broncos veteran Trindon Holliday, who played for the 49ers in the regular season finale, could be an option.

3. Involve Colin Kaepernick In Run Game

Colin Kaepernick Seattle
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3. Involve Colin Kaepernick In Run Game

Colin Kaepernick Seattle
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Kaepernick is an incredible athlete, but far too often in 2014 he was not able to use his talents as a runner. Towards the end of the season, he used his legs much more often, rushing for 250 yards in the final three contests. Kap still needs to evolve as a passer, but he will become more dynamic if the coaching staff concocts more designed runs for him next season.

2. Generate Better Pass Rush From Defensive Line

Justin Smith 2
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2. Generate Better Pass Rush From Defensive Line

Justin Smith 2
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Aldon Smith's suspension kept one of the NFL's best pass rushers sidelined for most of the year, but the other 49ers failed to generate consistent pressure in his absence. With Ray McDonald gone and Justin Smith considering retirement, San Francisco may change its philosophy on the defensive line. Tank Carradine and Quinton Dial may not be every down players, but they will certainly turn up the pressure on the opposing quarterbacks.

1. Establish Run-First Offensive Identity

Frank Gore Arizona
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1. Establish Run-First Offensive Identity

Frank Gore Arizona
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Offensive coordinator Greg Roman was often criticized for his play-calling in 2014, but the overall identity of the offense was constantly in flux. The transition to a spread passing attack last season was mostly unsuccessful, and too often the team neglected the run. Next season, the team may benefit from reverting to a power-running approach, while still involving playmakers like Anquan Boldin and Vernon Davis, particularly in play-action.

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