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The Film Room: DeForest Buckner Is (Almost) Unblockable

One of the most talented defensive end prospects in recent years is on the precipice of having a huge breakout season.

NFL: Dallas Cowboys at San Francisco 49ers Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

The 49ers raised some eyebrows this offseason by formally switching their defense to a Seahawks-style hybrid 4-3. They did this, of course, despite arguably having none of the "necessary" personnel to run it, but fans and analysts alike seemed to forget about one key detail after the switch was announced - monsters like DeForest Buckner can play in ANY defense and still take over a game.

San Francisco was lucky to have the former Oregon Duck fall into their laps at 7th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, and he rewarded that selection by flashing his incredible talent throughout his entire rookie campaign. Now taking lessons from a brand new defensive line coach that has names like J.J. Watt, Damon Harrison, and Jason Pierre-Paul on his resume, Buckner is primed to build on a promising first season to become the unblockable force that everyone at Niners Nation thinks he can be.

With any luck, the Texans will be able to at least partially contain him when they meet in Week 14 at NRG Stadium. Enjoy the episode!