Ian

Williams

The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus. A former undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame, Williams has appeared in just four career games but may be in the mix to replace free agent Isaac Sopoaga as San Francisco’s starting nose tackle. Regardless of whether he starts, Williams’ role will grow in 2013.

Williams had to be carted off in the first quarter and is out for the rest of the game. The 49ers will go with Glenn Dorsey at nose tackle.

It’s a potentially season-ending injury and Williams should be considered out indefinitely. The 49ers don’t have the option to place Williams on the IR/designated to return after using it on sixth-round LB Nick Moody (hand) last week. Glenn Dorsey will start at nose tackle in his absence.

Making his first career start, Williams was lost for the year in Sunday’s blowout loss to the Seahawks. He’ll be replaced for former Chiefs first-round pick Glenn Dorsey, who played well in Seattle. It’s not a major loss for the 49ers.

Coach Jim Harbaugh made the announcement in Monday’s presser. Making his first career start, Williams was injured on a cut block in Sunday’s loss. He’ll be replaced by former Chiefs bust Glenn Dorsey. At least according to Pro Football Focus’ ratings, Dorsey played well in Williams’ absence.

Williams fractured the ankle in Week 2 after making his first career NFL start. Glenn Dorsey took over at nose tackle from there and performed admirably, especially in run defense. 24 years old and signed cheaply through 2015, Williams is likely to return as a rotational run stuffer, playing on early downs.

Williams is out for the year after multiple offseason surgeries. His loss is a downgrade to an already thin interior line. Williams will likely have to settle for a one year, prove-it deal in 2017 free agency.

Williams had been on the NFI list recovering from ankle surgeries. He wasn’t expected to play this season. Williams has always been injury plagued, but started all 16 games last season. Now 27, he’ll hunt for incentive-laden deals in free agency once he gets healthy.

Dorsey isn’t practicing yet, but he’ll be ready in plenty of time for the start of the season. The 29-year-old is one of a handful of candidates the 49ers are considering to replace Justin Smith at right end. Arik Armstead, Tony Jerod-Eddie and Ian Williams could see snaps there as well, particularly on passing downs.

Williams has undergone four ankle surgeries since last Week 2. He was placed on active/PUP Friday, and can be activated at any time. Williams can’t afford any setbacks if he wants to avoid missing extended time. He remains a candidate for reserve/PUP, which would cost him the first six games.