NFC West Notes: 49ers, Cardinals, Seahawks

49ers

Former 49ers DL Ian Williams says all the help the 49ers added for their pass rush this offseason will help last year’s sack leader, DL DeForest Buckner, not just by taking attention away, but by letting him take more breathers during the year. 

“I hope they cut down on his reps this season because it starts to show later on in a game and later on in the season,” Williams said via NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco. “He can take some of these reps off.”

Buckner played on 852 of the 49ers 1,073 defensive snaps last season. That number is sure to come down with the signing of DE Dee Ford and selection of DE Nick Bosa with the No. 2 overall pick. Williams adds not to count out DEs Solomon Thomas and Arik Armstead either. 

“They’re in prime position to showcase their talents. Solomon and Arik, they went in the first round for a reason,” Williams said.

• ESPN’s Nick Wagoner listed 49ers G Joshua Garnett as a potential veteran cut. Wagoner says Garnett could push for a starting job if he stays healthy, but could also be beaten out for a roster spot if he can’t. 

Cardinals

• ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss listed Cardinals WR Chad Williams as a potential veteran cut. Arizona added half-a-dozen wide receivers this offseason. 
• Former agent and CBS analyst Joel Corry writes that Cardinals OT D.J. Humphries could put himself in position to sign a big deal if he can stay healthy in his 2019 contract year, especially given the demand for offensive linemen in free agency. 

Seahawks

• According to Ben Volin of the Boston Globe, the Colts turned down at least one trade offer from the Seahawks last year for QB Jacoby Brissett.
• ESPN’s Brady Henderson listed Seahawks QBs Geno Smith and Paxton Lynch as a potential veteran cuts.
• Seattle will likely keep only one as the backup quarterback. Lynch signed in January and has more time in Seattle’s system, but Smith has the edge in NFL experience.
• Lynch is also a candidate for the Seahawks’ practice squad.