In Flanigan the 49ers have a tackle that excels on the pass rush. He is expected to sub in and out with Dana Stubblefield who excels against the run. Flanigan will see a fair bit of play time in this manner, and will also spell Bryant Young at times. The 49ers can feel confident in Flanigan taking the field, something they haven’t been able to do with a backup defensive tackle since the days that Brenston Buckner was a backup.

By having Flanigan on the field against the pass, instead of Stubby, the 49ers should have a better pass rush. While Stubblefield can certainly rush a passer, Flanigan is more consistent in this area. The 49ers may also be grooming Flanigan to take over for Stubby some time in the next year or two, as Stubblefield’s contract sores after this season.

In giving the team’s third defensive tackle more repetition, the 49ers will also be able to keep Bryant Young and Dana Stubblefield fresh throughout each game, and the season. The added rest should allow the two to go against the offensive line even harder when they are on the field.