Week eight of the NFL has come and gone, and thus we have reached the half way point in the season. In this article we will examine the top three Pro Bowl candidates of the San Francisco 49ers. Looking for Pro Bowl contenders on this team proves to be an almost impossible task. The 49ers rank last in total offense, and 30th in total defense. The only thing the 49ers are trying to win this season it seems is the number one pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. However, there are still a few players that stand out as diamonds among the rough.
Top Midseason San Francisco 49ers Pro Bowl Candidates
Joe Staley
Joe Staley is the best offensive lineman the 49ers have. He was drafted by the team in 2007 out of Central Michigan, and has spent his entire career with San Francisco. A ten year veteran, Staley has been selected to the Pro Bowl five times, from 2011- 2015. There was talk before the trade deadline of Staley possibly being traded, but nothing came to fruition. Trading Staley would have been a mistake. Besides being the team’s best lineman he is a veteran and leader on offense. Staley is also a great mentor to the young talent the 49ers have in Joshua Garnett and Trenton Brown. Signed through 2019, Staley should be with the team for a while and is having another Pro Bowl season.
Bruce Miller
Bruce Miller has been a key component to the 49ers offense sense 2011. Though in Chip Kelly’s offense he sees a limited role at full back, his versatility allows him to find a role. Miller is an extremely athletic and intelligent player. He is a great pass catcher out of the back field. Miller has also lined up at tight end or in the slot position and has caught passes as a receiver. Miller is also a big contributor on special teams whether it be covering kicks or return blocking. It is unfortunate that Miller seems to be mired on a disappointing offensive unit. Regardless, if Miller continues to stay healthy and perform at a high level, he will be a Pro Bowl consideration.
Jimmie Ward
This season, Jimmie Ward has emerged as arguably the team’s best defensive player. Ward was the team’s first round pick in 2014 and has become an every down back for the first time starting this season. Ward has been one of the few bright spots in the 49ers recent history. This draft pick is finally paying dividends and the team is getting a return on their investment. Ward has accounted for 15 tackles this season, and three deflected passes. He is a sound tackler and does not allow much separation with the receiver. The only downside to Ward seems to be his health situation. Ward missed three games this season already due to a quadriceps injury. Remaining on the field the rest of this year and continuing to play at a high level will offer Ward an opportunity to play in the Pro Bowl come February.
