Hyder went from being a nice backup piece to the 49ers’ puzzle on the defensive line to becoming an essential, irreplaceable member of the unit within a span of three plays last Sunday against the Jets.
Nick Bosa’s season-ending knee injury was a killer for the 49ers. Then, two plays later, backup defensive tackle Solomon Thomas sustained a torn left ACL of his own.
The 49ers this week added Ziggy Ansah and Dion Jordan, a pair of top-five picks in the 2013 draft.
Hyder earned a spot on the team with an impressive training camp, and he is being counted upon to be productive on a weekly basis. He says his mindset does not change, even if his role has.
“I’ve always approached my work, my games, my practices the same way,” he said. “I’m getting ready for a heavier workload, but I’m always prepared to step in and make plays and prepare like a starter.”
In the first two games, Hyder registered 11 tackles and a sack. The 49ers have just three sacks heading into Week 3.