The 49ers’ roster is still in a relatively hefty rebuild despite talks of them being a dark horse playoff team a season ago. Their lack of depth showed throughout the season as starters underperformed or got hurt, and their backups didn’t provide much relief. Another free agency period and draft class could dramatically alter what the 49ers look like on the field next season.

Here are some contributors from 2018 who could lose their role, or see it reduced, in favor of a newly-acquired veteran or rookie:

LB Malcolm Smith

(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Injuries and age caught up to Smith last season in what was an underwhelming campaign. He played 12 games after missing all of the 2017 season, and it appears his days as a viable NFL starter are behind him. Perhaps a fully healthy version of Smith can still contribute. The 49ers may wait to part ways with Smith until next offseason when they have a club option on his contract. If he is on the roster, expect Smith’s role to be filled by either a mid-round draft pick or free agent.