LA Rams defector dossier: Will OLB Samson Ebukam impact 49ers D?

Temper those expectations

I get it. Folks witness a newly arrived veteran in the weight room putting up serious poundage and suddenly he is a mini-celebrity. Does he possess serious athleticism? Yes, he does, as this Beacher Report draft profile says rather succinctly:

"“Ebukam dominated his pro day with a 39-inch vertical jump, 4.45 time in the 40-yard dash, 24 bench press reps and a 7.07-second three-cone time. At 6’1 ⅜” and 248 pounds, Ebukam has eye-opening numbers that will get scout’s attention based on his athleticism alone.” – Per Matt Miller of Bleacher Report"

That 2017 NFL Draft profile also cited a lot of weaknesses, a young man who possessed the raw potential, but who failed to deliver on the NFL football field. He has been a 3-4 outside linebacker by trade, likely over the course of the past eight seasons of football, both college, and pros. Now? It’s a hand in the dirt and a new course for his career.

Ebukam signed a two-year deal with the 49ers because he is one of the most consistent and dependable players in the NFL. He will undoubtedly back up DE Dee Ford, who has played just 12 games for the 49ers over the past two seasons. While Ebukam may not offer Ford’s upside in production, he most certainly outclasses Ford in durability. Best of all, Ebukam knows the NFC West.

This is not a breakout year for Ebukam. Even the most optimistic 49ers fans must realize that he is on a new team, learning a new defense, playing a new role, and trying to acquaint himself with teammates in an entirely new locker room. He is a solid player in the sense that he will be there to suit up. He may get a tackle or two, and perhaps the occasional quarterback sack every fourth or fifth game. He is a rotational player who ensures that the 49ers will have someone to start in the lineup in injuries occur again.