As the San Francisco 49ers prepare to host the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday, both teams are looking to assert their defensive dominance. With key injuries affecting both squads, certain players are poised to step up and make significant impacts. Here are four defensive players who could shape the outcome of this game.

Tatum Bethune, LB, San Francisco 49ers

With Fred Warner out for the season, Tatum Bethune is stepping into a critical role in San Francisco's defense. Bethune will be tasked with covering tight ends, assisting in run fits, and helping to disguise blitzes. His performance will be pivotal in maintaining the 49ers' defensive integrity. Bethune plays well, this game will go well for San Francisco.

Robert Beal Jr., EDGE, San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers' pass-rush rotation is thin, making players like Robert Beal Jr. crucial. Beal provides flexibility on the edge and in pass-rushing situations, helping to collapse the pocket and disrupt the Falcons' quarterback. In the 2024 season, Beal appeared in 14 games, tallying 17 total tackles (11 solo, 6 assists). His ability to maintain consistent pressure will be key to San Francisco's defensive success as he transitions from a supportive role to a starting one.

Dee Winters, LB, San Francisco 49ers

With Warner's absence, Dee Winters is taking on an expanded role in coverage, run defense, and blitz schemes. Winters' athleticism and instincts will be tested as he steps into a more prominent position on the opposite side of Bethune. His performance in these areas will be critical to stabilizing the linebacker group against Atlanta.

Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Atlanta Falcons

On the Falcons' side, Arnold Ebiketie is a key player to watch. He has seven solo tackles this far into the 2025 season. While the rest of his numbers are currently low, Ebiketie has shown flashes of potential. In Week 1 of the 2025 NFL preseason, he delivered a highlight play with a strip-sack against the Detroit Lions, showcasing his ability to disrupt. 

Ebiketie's performance could dictate Atlanta's ability to pressure San Francisco's quarterback, either one of them, and disrupt the 49ers' rhythm. Containing him, or at least mitigating his impact, will be vital for San Francisco's success.

Final Thoughts

Success for the 49ers' defense will depend on their depth players rising to the occasion and maintaining consistency throughout the game. On Sunday, the team that executes these key defensive roles most effectively could decide the winner at Levi's Stadium.