4 San Francisco 49ers Who Could Regress in 2012

The San Francisco 49ers' breakout season was attributed to several breakout players. There is no reason to doubt several more breakout seasons by this current roster, but I suspect a few standout performers in 2011 could regress in 2012. 

A 13-3 regular season finish was marred by fumble issues in the 49ers' loss to the New York Giants in the NFC championship. For some, an appearance in the NFC championship game was enough to erase the horrible memories of the last few years.

From the excellent play on defense to surprising quarterback play, many football fans, including the gold rush, could not have predicted such success, especially considering the circumstances with a lockout and a rookie head coach.

The 49ers somehow made it work, in large part to the efforts of Harbaugh and Trent Baalke, the 49ers general manager.

While Harbaugh proved to be a breath of fresh air, war is won by soldiers, as dramatically stated by Nick Fury in the summer blockbuster move, The Avengers.

The same process would have to occur for the 49ers to succeed in the 2012 season, but fans should temper their expectations for a few players. 

With that, here is my list of 49ers players who could regress in 2012, after having a breakout season in the 2011 season. 

Kendall Hunter (RB)

After the 49ers selected the Oklahoma State product in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL draft, I knew the Niners had a special talent. 

Hunter proved to be a steal, and his excellent play last season should have opened the doors for more playing time, but I suspect quite the opposite in 2012. 

The 49ers are loaded at the running back position, after signing Brandon Jacobs and drafting LaMichael James in the second round of the 2012 NFL draft. 

Hunter should retain his role as the primary backup to Frank Gore, but I expect him to receive fewer carries in 2012. 

Isaac Sopoaga (NT)

The 49ers defense was one of the more intimidating units in the league, and with players like Patrick Willis and Justin Smith, this should not come as a surprise.  

This is a defense that highlights the linebackers, but the interior lineman do the dirty work that many fans tend to overlook. Sopoaga is one of those players. 

His play in 2011 was a surprise to many, especially considering the Samoan was playing out of position. Vic Fangio, the 49ers defensive coordinator, wanted a more athletic presence in the middle of his 3-4 defense. 

While fans were clamoring for the 49ers front office to re-sign mammoth nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin, the more athletic Sopoaga was a better fit in the nose. The same could be said when the 49ers didn't re-sign linebacker, Takeo Spikes. 

Despite Sopoaga's standout performance in 2011, he is getting up there in age. Sopoaga will turn 31 in September. 

The 49ers did not address this issue in the past draft, so Sopoaga should receive his usual playing time in 2012, but age is a factor. In addition, the 49ers could potentially move the athletic Ricky Jean-Francois inside in 2012. 

Joe Staley (OT)

The former tight end was always a talented tackle, but injury issues have plagued parts his career. Staley was relatively healthy in 2011, and if he continues this streak, his place on this list will be a mistake.

Staley's excellent performance in 2012 was evident in his first Pro-Bowl nod. Many more accolades should come for the athletic tackle, but he must stay healthy.  

Carlos Rogers (CB)

Carlos Rogers was simply a difference maker for the 49ers in 2011, but a myriad of issues could hinder him in 2012. 

Some fans could point to age, but based off past performances, meaning before he suited up in a 49ers uniform, it doesn't look good for Rogers. 

Before last season, Rogers intercepted eight balls in a six-year span. In 2012 alone, Rogers intercepted six balls. Consistency has been an issue for the former Redskin. 

The 49ers did right by Carlos Rogers in free agency this year, but was that money well-spent? If the 49ers are receiving the Carlos Rogers of 2011, then yes, but history is not on the former Auburn product's side.