Dial is expected to start at defensive end opposite Glenn Dorsey to start the season, CSN Bay Area reports.

Dial has been lining up with the first unit during training camp and preseason, so it should come as no surprise that he will start the season in that role. With the release of Darnell Dockett - who was only expected to play on pass-rush downs - it further cements Dial's role as the starting right defensive end. His versatility should keep him on the field for all four downs. From a fantasy perspective, Dial could be useful in deeper IDP leagues for a low-end combination of tackles and sacks.

Dial was working with the 49ers' first unit as the left defensive end during Friday's OTAs, CSN Bay Area reports.

It was interesting to see Dial slotted at Justin Smith's vacated spot on the defensive line. Of course, we can't read too much into this as both Darnell Dockett (knee) and Arik Armstead (school) were not participating in OTAs. But it is still a good sign for the young defensive lineman that the 49ers are willing to use him anywhere on the line.

Dial started at nose tackle and recorded seven tackles (five solo) and his second sack of the season against the Chargers on Saturday.

Dial has been filling in well for an injury-depleted 49ers' defense. This was his best performance of the season, but it will be hard to duplicate against a tougher Arizona offensive line next week.

Dial recorded two tackles (one solo) and a sack in Sunday's win over the Saints.

Dial was called upon to enter the game after starting nose tackle Ian Williams went down with a leg injury. He performed well and would garner some IDP value if he were to start next week against the Giants. The initial reports are that Williams suffered a small leg fracture, which could have him sidelined for a significant amount of time. We will have a clearer picture of the situation once practice begins this week.

Dial led the 49ers in tackles Thursday, collecting five and forcing two fumbles in the 23-3 preseason loss to the Ravens.

Dial was starting with the first unit due to injuries to Glenn Dorsey (biceps) and Ian Williams (ankle). Both players' chances of returning by the season opener are bleak, so Dial is slated to man the nose tackle position going forward.

Dial, who may take on an increased role with Glenn Dorsey (biceps) out for the season, has been "beastly" during training camp, according to ESPN's Bill Williamson.

Projected as the 49ers' third-string nose tackle as recently as a few weeks ago, Dial now has a shot at the starting role. Glenn Dorsey, who sat atop the depth chart, is out for the season with a torn biceps. Meanwhile, Ian Williams, who opened last season as the starter, is taking longer than expected to recover from a broken ankle suffered in September. While he won't be an IDP option, Dial may emerge as a key cog in the San Francisco run defense.

49ers activated NT Quinton Dial (toe) from the reserve/NFI list.

A fifth-round pick from Alabama, Dial missed the first six weeks while recovering from toe surgery. He'll provide defensive line depth with Glenn Dorsey (hamstring) and Ray McDonald (biceps) questionable for Sunday's game. Dial can play both nose tackle and five-technique end in the the 49ers' 3-4 defense.