49ers: 2016 Depth Chart Prediction Amid Training Camp

Predicting 49ers 2016 Depth Chart Amid Training Camp

Sep 21, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) and quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) take the field for warmups prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tramaine Brock (26) breaks up a pass intended for St. Louis Rams wide receiver Kenny Britt (18) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Left Cornerback

V1.0 Assessment:

Starter: Tramaine Brock

Backup: Dontae Johnson

Nickel: Will Redmond

V2.0 Assessment:

Starter: Tramaine Brock

Backup: Dontae Johnson

Nickel: Jimmie Ward

Wait, so third-year defensive back Jimmie Ward goes back to his nickel role?

In this case, yes. According to Chris Biderman of USA Today’s Niners Wire, the 49ers aren’t totally committed to removing Ward altogether from the position he held over his first two seasons in San Francisco.

Biderman cited defensive coordinator Jim O’Neil’s desire to keep Ward on the field as much as possible, which means the up-and-coming defensive back may occupy slot coverage when opponents line up three wide receivers.

This would give our backup some additional looks on the opposite side through, at least in nickel formations.

Next: Right Cornerback