With 2023 NFL training camps set to kick off the week of July 24, it's time to get up to speed on all 32 NFL teams. Christian Gonzales has the lowdown on position battles, key players and notable subplots across the NFC West:
Catch up on the San Francisco 49ers' offseason and 2023 outlook below ...
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1) Who will be the 49ers' starting quarterback in Week 1? Brock Purdy, the last pick in the 2022 draft, went 7-1 as the starter last year, guiding San Francisco to the NFC Championship Game. But a torn UCL in the team's playoff loss has clouded his place atop the 49ers' depth chart. As he continues his elbow rehab, former No. 3 pick Trey Lance has been putting in work (including with Patrick Mahomes) to reclaim his starting spot. The team added another former third overall pick to its QB room this offseason in Sam Darnold, who said earlier this month that learning the 49ers' dynamic offense has been "a work in progress." Although Purdy is expected to be the starter when healthy, any setbacks in his recovery could open up opportunities for Lance, or even Darnold, to take on QB1 duties to start the season.
2) Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle and Deebo Samuel are a headache for defensive coordinators around the league. The trio ranked top four in scrimmage yards per game at their positions the last two seasons. Brandon Aiyuk enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2022, earning career-highs in receptions (78), receiving yards (1,015) and touchdowns (eight). In fact, Aiyuk was the only 49ers player to have more 70 receptions or 800 receiving yards. As much uncertainty hangs over the team's QB situation, there's no questioning the talent of the squad's supporting cast.
3) The No. 1 ranked total defense in 2022
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