The San Francisco 49ers’ 20–10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday wasn’t just a showcase for Christian McCaffrey and Mac Jones. The defense also played a crucial role in the victory. The latest Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades help tell the story of which defenders stepped up and which areas still need improvement.

Top Performers

Bryce Huff (DE) — 81.9 (45 snaps)

Bryce Huff had one of his best games of the season, generating consistent pressure from the edge. His 81.9 grade reflects not only quarterback pressures but also solid run defense, as he helped limit the Falcons' backs to minimal yardage on designed runs to the right side.

Chase Lucas (CB) — 81.0 (35 snaps)

Chase Lucas was reliable in coverage, blanketing his assignments and breaking up a critical third down pass. His PFF grade also accounts for his ability to stay disciplined in run support, helping the 49ers control short-yardage situations.

Sam Okuayinonu (DE) — 79.9 (44 snaps)

Playing opposite Huff, Sam Okuayinonu consistently collapsed the pocket and disrupted Atlanta’s timing. His 79.9 grade highlights a strong showing in both pass rush and gap integrity, giving the Falcons little room to operate inside.

Tatum Bethune (LB) — 79.3 (56 snaps)

Tatum Bethune, filling in for an injured Fred Warner, continued to show his versatility. He was active in coverage and run support, finishing with an impressive 79.3 grade for a player making a key transition into the defense mid-season. 

Malik Mustapha (FS) — 67.8 (45 snaps)

Malik Mustapha had a solid performance in his first extended action of the season, showing good instincts over the top and limiting big plays. Though not elite, his grade reflects a promising return from the injured reserve, particularly in pass coverage.

Struggles and Areas of Concern

Renardo Green (CB) — 28.2 (18 snaps)

Renardo Green had a rough outing in coverage, allowing multiple completions in his snaps and struggling with contested catches. His low grade reflects the difficulty San Francisco has with depth at cornerback.

Curtis Robinson (LB) — 33.2 (9 snaps)

Curtis Robinson, pressed into action due to injuries, struggled to find his footing in limited snaps. Though a small sample, the 33.2 grade highlights the challenge of relying on untested depth players in high-pressure situations.

CJ West (DT) — 45.1 (9 snaps)

CJ West saw minimal action but allowed pressure on a key passing down, lowering his overall PFF score. The 49ers’ interior defensive line depth may require continued evaluation moving forward.

Jason Pinnock (SS) — 46.7 (23 snaps)

Jason Pinnock had some lapses in coverage and missed a key tackle in the second half. While his play didn’t cost a touchdown, it contributed to a lower overall grade.

Ji’Ayir Brown (SS) — 47.5 (65 snaps)

Ji'Ayir Brown logged the most snaps among San Francisco's secondary struggles. While active in run support, he was targeted multiple times and allowed several completions, keeping his PFF grade below 50.

Takeaway

The 49ers’ defense was resilient despite being tested by injuries. Edge pressure from Huff and Okuayinonu, combined with steady play from Bethune and Lucas, allowed San Francisco to control critical stretches and force turnovers.

Depth remains a concern, particularly in the secondary and linebacker rotations. However, the defense’s ability to adapt was a key factor in the 20–10 win over Atlanta.