Title: 49ers Hope Randy Gregory Boosts Defensive Line Production
Subtitle: Defensive Coordinator Steve Wilks believes Gregory’s addition will improve sack numbers
SANTA CLARA — The San Francisco 49ers are looking to amp up their defensive line’s production, and they believe they have found the perfect addition in Randy Gregory. Defensive Coordinator Steve Wilks expressed his excitement for Gregory’s arrival, stating that he believes the pass rusher will fit right in with the team’s culture.
Wilks praised Gregory’s character and work ethic, emphasizing his willingness to learn the team’s defense and dedication to absorbing knowledge. The defensive coordinator also revealed that he is impressed by Gregory’s movement on the field and expects his skills to shine through in the 49ers’ system.
While the 49ers’ pass rushing has consistently received high grades from Pro Football Focus (PFF), their quarterback sack numbers this season have fallen short of expectations. Comparing the stats from Week 5 of the previous season to this year, the team has recorded significantly fewer sacks. This underperformance has prompted the 49ers to seek reinforcements.
One player particularly pleased with Gregory’s arrival is defensive end Nick Bosa. Bosa believes that having a presence on the opposite side of the defensive line will benefit both him and Gregory. Bosa’s confidence stems from the belief that Gregory will be more effective playing from a lower starting position, which allows for quicker bursts off the line of scrimmage.
Wilks echoes Bosa’s sentiments and shares high hopes for Gregory’s performance. The defensive coordinator suggests that starting from a lower position could enhance Gregory’s play, emphasizing the importance of pad level and the advantage of being the lower man on the field.
Gregory, who stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 242 pounds, was acquired by the 49ers from the Denver Broncos along with a 2024 seventh-round draft pick. Despite modest sack numbers in his time with the Broncos, Gregory’s potential and prior success in the league make him an intriguing addition to the 49ers’ defense.
The former Dallas Cowboy was selected in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft and recorded 19.5 sacks over five seasons in Dallas. Gregory’s highest single-season sack total is six, a mark he achieved in both 2018 and 2021.
The 49ers are hoping that Gregory can replicate or even surpass his previous best, which would make him the team’s leading sack-getter not named Bosa since 2021. Arden Key and Arik Armstead recorded 6.5 and six sacks, respectively, in that season.
Gregory’s first opportunity to showcase his skills as a 49er comes on the road against the Cleveland Browns this Sunday. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the defensive line performs with the addition of the talented pass rusher.
In conclusion, the 49ers’ acquisition of Randy Gregory shows their commitment to improving their pass rush and bolstering their defensive line. With his strong work ethic, proven track record, and potential to excel from a lower starting position, Gregory has the opportunity to make a significant impact on the team’s overall defensive performance.