San Francisco 49ers: 5 Things To Look For in Training Camp

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January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) runs the football during the fourth quarter against the St. Louis Rams at Levi’s Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

How Does the Secondary Shake Out?

The 49ers have some talent on this part of the team. They also have a nice mix of youth and experience.

Tramaine Brock seems to be the choice for the No. 1 corner role, though there are some who think he might lose the job. The other side of the field has been a quasi revolving door. Last season, Kenneth Acker, Dontae Johnson and Keith Reaser all saw action there.

The safety position is more settled, with Eric Reid and Jimmie Ward showing many good things. And now with the return of veteran Antoine Bethea, the unit should be better still.

Assuming Brock keeps the No. 1 role, who earns the No. 2 role?

Ward was seeing action at this position through various parts of OTAs and minicamp, and played exceptionally well. O’Neil now views him as a core 11-man player and, depending on the scheme, he could switch between corner and safety.

The 49ers also have intriguing draft options in Will Redmond (who could be the best option for the nickel corner spot if he can get himself healthy), Rashard Robinson (6-foot-1 and can run) and Prince Charles Iworah (who has the ability to cover and return kicks).

When you throw in Marcus Cromartie and Chris Davis, there is a lot of depth running around.

There were some good and bad things from each of these players throughout the OTAs and minicamp. There were many touchdowns given up, but also a few interceptions credited.

The secondary has arguably the most open and intriguing competition going into training camp. Who wins between the experienced guys and the rookies? Who shows the best ability to cover?

Whoever plays the best in camp, and follows it with solid performances in the preseason games will be the players who make the final roster.

The bottom line is this youthful group (however it is finalized), must grow up quickly and be sound in their techniques and film study. They have to be able to support in stopping the run and they must show some ability in slowing down the opposition’s passing game.

It is vital these elements can be proven before the real stuff starts.

Next: Who will be the kicker?