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The 49ers Hope New Defensive Wrinkles From Coordinator Raheem Morris Pay Off
Brock Purdy said the new five-man fronts and disguised coverages are testing San Francisco’s offense as Dre Greenlaw returns from injury.
On Monday, July 27, 2026, San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris introduced new defensive looks, including five-man fronts, during training camp in Santa Clara, Calif.
Morris, who previously coached in Atlanta, is shifting the team away from the four-down front used for the past eight years, creating versatility in the passing game.
Star left tackle Trent Williams and quarterback Brock Purdy reported that the new defensive schemes provide "a good challenge," as well as good preparation for other teams during camp.
Rejoining the 49ers after being cut by Denver in March, linebacker Dre Greenlaw has reunited with Fred Warner, restoring a defensive duo that led the team to the Super Bowl in 2023.
Describing Greenlaw as the team's "bully," cornerback Deommodore Lenoir noted the defense is working on communication as players adapt to new techniques and both linebackers' presence.