The 49ers host the Denver Broncos for their second preseason game under Kyle Shanahan Saturday after two joint practices during the week. Here are 10 players to watch…

Solomon Thomas, DL

(Solomon Thomas – Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports)

Thomas in the preseason opener tied for second among San Francisco’s defenders with 28 snaps. The Stanford alum has been a quick study after missing the offseason program and was disruptive in his debut, logging two tackles and a quarterback hit. Thomas pressured Chiefs quarterback Tyler Bray before he threw an interception to Rashard Robinson and also before a batted pass by Aaron Lynch.

Thomas has been working with the second-string defensive line but could ascend up the depth chart with a strong showing in the coming weeks. The 49ers are crowded along the defensive front. Thomas earning a starting job could make Tank Carradine available in a trade. The Patriots, for example, could partner in a deal after losing rookie Derek Rivers for the year with a knee injury.