San Francisco 49ers: 5 players who must improve

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: A detailed view of a San Francisco 49ers helmet is seen resting on the field during an NFL game between the Arizona Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers on November 5, 2017 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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4. Arik Armstead

People have thrown around the word “bust” when discussing Armstead, but it may be a little to early for that. Armstead was showing some flashes of improvement last year before breaking his hand cost him the last 10 games of the season. Also, it is worth noting that Armstead has had a revolving door at defensive coordinator. Robert Saleh will be the first coordinator in Armstead’s three seasons to return for a second.

Another offseaon to perfect his craft and learn Saleh’s scheme will be incredibly helpful for Armstead. Really, consistency is all that seems to have been missing. A physical specimen standing at 6-foot-7 and nearly 300 pounds, Armstead has the build to be a supremely productive defensive tackle. Hopefully 2018 will be the year where the physical attributes translate to on-field production.

In a league where there is a premium on rushing the passer, teams desperately need guys that succeed at that role. Evidenced by the 49ers taking defensive linemen in three consecutive drafts, they needed talent in the trenches. However, it does shorten the leash with regards to how many chances players get. Perhaps knowing that it may be his last guaranteed shot at success will motivate the former Oregon Duck.

With only six career sacks, Armstead can really only get better. He is a talented run stopper, but by adding some pass rushing ability, Armstead will transform the 49ers defensive line. With some push up the middle he will help free up Solomon Thomas and DeForest Buckner to come off the edges. Look for 2018 to be a career year for Armstead.