Safety
San Francisco’s starting tandem of safeties this year will likely be Eric Reid and Antoine Bethea.
That’s fine. The two make up the oldest and most-experienced pairing within the 49ers secondary.
And there’s a good chance things stay that way too. But keep in mind Bethea is 31 years old, and his long-term future with San Francisco looks hazy at best.
The 49ers may also be looking to continue the development of second-year safety Jaquiski Tartt.
Tartt struggled last year in coverage — posting a minus-8.7 pass-coverage grade, according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required) — but that’s to be expected from young defensive backs as they learn the nuances of covering pro-level receivers.
Even though the Niners will feature Tartt as a hybrid linebacker in sub packages, there’s a good chance he ends up taking over for Bethea in base formations too.
Let’s go with that prediction.
Week 17 Starters: Eric Reid and Jaquiski Tartt
Next: Cornerback