Craig

Dahl

The Rams are already down to third- and fourth-stringers on the offensive line and at cornerback, so it’s just more of the same for LeVoir and Gordy.

These two also battled for the job in 2011, with Dahl opening the season with the gig. That lasted just five games, as Stewart took over for the final 11 weeks of the season. The Rams’ secondary actually ranked seventh in the league last year.

The 49ers were reportedly already aware of the problem, and some were quick to attribute the signing of Eric Mangini to this issue. We’re not convinced this was the sole reason for bringing in Mangini, but it is interesting to hear at least one team thought the team’s play calling was predictable. According to Dahl, the 49ers have corrected the problem with the help of his input and “self-scouting.”

St. Louis is expected to pursue “a better coverage option” at the free safety spot. Dahl, 27, is no better than a replacement-level talent and forced just one turnover in 16 starts in 2012. He should resurface elsewhere as a backup.

Dahl is officially questionable to return, but is believed to have a concussion. The Achilles’ heel of the Rams secondary, Dahl has been replaced by Darian Stewart.

Dahl was routinely burned in coverage with the Rams, and was caught numerous times tackling the air around him. He started all 16 games last season, but he will never be viewed as a starter at any point over the rest of his career. Dahl isn’t a capable replacement for Dashon Goldson.

Dahl, 28 in June, started all 16 games in 2012, racking up 78 tackles, two pass breakups, and one interception. Dahl isn’t a sure tackler and oftentimes gets lost in coverage, so he’ll likely be the third safety in San Francisco. Look for the 49ers to target someone like Charles Woodson or an early draft pick to replace Dashon Goldson in the starting lineup.

Dahl has slashed his $1.35 million salary to $825,000, getting $365,000 guaranteed in return. Another $175,000 is possible through in-game roster bonuses. The maneuver created $600,000 in cap space. Dahl played just 89 snaps on defense last season, and isn’t guaranteed a roster spot for 2014 despite his $365K guarantee.

Dahl is a 30-year-old special teamer and backup safety.

Dahl is now playing on a one-year, $1.3 million deal. Dahl appeared in all 16 games last season, playing 184 snaps on defense. Even with the 49ers undergoing a dramatic talent drain, Dahl’s role won’t increase in 2015.