SANTA CLARA – Adam Snyder has edged out David Baas at left guard, coach Mike Nolan announced Thursday, resolving all but one of the team's starting spots for Sunday's opener against Arizona.
Snyder had been practicing at left guard all offseason, but Baas started Friday's exhibition finale against San Diego because Snyder was out with a high-ankle sprain. Snyder has been a valuable backup in previous seasons, playing every position on the offensive line except center. When Larry Allen's contract expired at season's end, the 49ers moved Snyder to left guard thinking he would excel when allowed to concentrate at one position.
Snyder, however, struggled at the position early in training camp.
"He started to get more consistent," Nolan said. " … The (offensive) line in training camp was getting used to the new offense as well. But the last couple of games, they weren't too bad. They were pretty good."
Baas, meanwhile, will be the primary backup at left and right guard, where Tony Wragge is the starter.
Nolan also said Jeff Ulbrich likely would start next to Patrick Willis at inside linebacker but that Ulbrich and newcomer Takeo Spikes would split time at the position.
The only undecided position is wide receiver, where veteran Bryant Johnson appears to have the edge over rookie Josh Morgan at split end. Isaac Bruce is the starter at the other wideout spot.
Rookie to play – Nolan said he expected first-round pick Kentwan Balmer to play some Sunday.
"But how many reps and when he goes in, I'm not sure yet. But we look to utilize him," Nolan said.
Balmer didn't play a lot in college, Nolan said, and simply needs more time on the field. Still, he said the rookie showed all the signs of being a good lineman.
"Some guys have potential, but they don't have the other things that go with it," Nolan said. "They're just body beautiful. But they don't really have the work ethic or the toughness. The reason I have confidence Kentwan will get there (is) he does … have good work ethic, he is coachable, and he does have good toughness."
Injuries – Tight end Delanie Walker sat out practice because of a sore calf. He is expected to return today.
Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin (knee) and linebacker Parys Haralson (shoulder) went through a full practice.
Read The Bee's Matthew Barrows' blogs at www.sacbee.com/ninersblog.
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