Warner said the 49ers’ run defense is still learning a new system. Through two games, San Francisco ranked 17th in run success rate and 12th in EPA per rush, but allowed just three carries of 10-plus yards, tied for second-fewest in the NFL.
Injuries have depleted the defensive line: Alfred Collins is out for the season with a torn patellar tendon, and Sam Okuayinonu broke his foot just before the season. Khalid Kareem came from the Falcons’ practice squad, while Romello Height has taken on an every-down role instead of being reserved for pass-rushing situations. Mykel Williams is about two weeks from becoming eligible to return from the PUP list; if he returns, the 49ers could use Kareem less and shift Height back to obvious passing downs.
The 49ers have recorded 11 stuffs, ranking 14th. Warner said he is not satisfied with the run defense and wants the unit to be dominant; the article credits Nick Bosa, Warner and Upton Stout with disrupting drives, but says relying on those stops may not be sustainable.
