49ers announce initial 2021 53- man roster

The 49ers have announced their initial 53-man roster for the 2021 season.

Quarterback (2): Jimmy Garoppolo, Trey Lance

It was clear once the team released Josh Rosen that they would only carry two quarterbacks on the active roster. Nate Sudfeld will likely be signed to the practice squad.

Running Back (5): Raheem Mostert, Trey Sermon (R), Elijah Mitchell (R), JaMycal Hasty, Kyle Juszczyk

JaMycal Hasty led the NFC in preseason rushing yards, 176 and touchdowns, 3. This performance was enough to earn the final spot among running backs over Wayne Gallman.

Wide Receiver (6): Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, Trent Sherfield, Mohamed Sanu, Jauan Jennings, Jalen Hurd

Entering training camp most figured Trent Sherfield might have a shot to sneak onto the roster due to his prowess on special teams. The free-agent acquisition from the Arizona Cardinals ended up being the third-best receiver in camp and became a lock for a roster spot.

Jalen Hurd appeared to be on the bubble due to injury. The third-year receiver was able to make it through the final week of practice and the final preseason game healthy and is now in line to take part in the first regular season game of his career.

Tight End (3): George Kittle, Ross Dwelley, Charlie Woerner

A couple of surprises here as the 49ers usually go into the season with four tight ends on their roster and the release of MyCole Pruitt who had a $500,000 guarantee. Known primarily for his blocking, injuries early in training camp ultimately held Pruitt back and the role went to Woerner.

Offensive Line (8): Trent Williams, Laken Tomlinson, Alex Mack, Daniel Brunksill, Mike McGlinchey, Aaron Banks (R), Jaylon Moore (R), Tom Compton

Did not see Tom Compton making the final roster although he has the ability to play both guard and center. The 49ers really need Jaylon Moore to step up and keep Compton off the field.

While Alex Mack is the only center, Brunskill showed that he can be a solid backup if necessary. San Francisco hopes to avoid having the middle of their offensive line resemble a game of musical chairs for the second season in a row.

Defensive Line (11): Samson Ebukam, Dee Ford, Kevin Givens, Arik Armstead, Zach Kerr, D.J. Jones, Kentavius Street, Maurice Hurst, Nick Bosa, Arden Key, Javon Kinlaw

The 49ers may have the deepest defensive line group in the NFL. Among the names not listed on the active roster is Jordan Willis. The defensive end will be on the Reserve/Suspended list for the first six weeks due to violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Linebacker (5): Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw, Azeez Al-Shaair, Marcell Harris, Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles

Warner, Greenlaw, and Al-Shaair all started for the 49ers in 2020. Marcell Harris and Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles are both former safeties that have transitioned to new positions. Both should contribute to special teams.

Defensive Back (10): Jason Verrett, Emmanuel Moseley, K’Waun Williams, Ambry Thomas (R), Deommodore Lenoir (R), Davontae Harris, Jaquiski Tartt, Jimmie Ward, Talanoa Hufanga (R), Tavon Wilson

Although they are rookies, Ambry Thomas and Deommodore Lenoir will be the primary backups at cornerback, with Lenoir also backing up Williams in the slot. The 49ers claimed Harris from the Baltimore Ravens earlier this month. He made one start for Baltimore in 2020.

If he can remain healthy, Jaquiski Tartt will join Jimmie Ward as starters at safety. Tavon Wilson is a veteran special teams contributor and that will also be the primary role for Hufanga to start the season.

Specialists (3): Robbie Gould, Mitch Wishnowsky, Taybor Pepper

No surprises here. Pepper has drawn high praise from special teams coordinator Richard Hightower for his snapping ability while Gould and Wishnowsky provide a veteran presence.

Jack Hammer is a lifelong 49ers fan who shares insights on the team and leads the discussion on all football and team topics. Follow Jack on Twitter @JackHammer_NFL and subscribe to his YouTube Channel, YouTube.com/c/JackHammer49.