Niner Noise
FanSided

NFL Draft: Positional Priority List for the 49ers in 2016

By Peter Felsch

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Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers right cornerback Jimmie Ward (25) and cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) reacts in the game against the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers won 28-0. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers right cornerback Jimmie Ward (25) and cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) reacts in the game against the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers won 28-0. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive Backs

Cornerbacks

The 49ers have a strong young group of cornerbacks and safeties.

In the 2016 NFL Draft the team invested three picks on corners: Will Redmond (Round 3), Rashard Robinson (Round 4) and Prince Charles Iworah (Round 7).

Robinson has seen the most playing time in his rookie season and has been extremely productive. According to Pro Football Focus, out of all of the cornerbacks in the NFL, no one has given up fewer yards per coverage snap than Robinson (0.33).

In 94 snaps, he’s been targeted nine times and allowed a grand total of 31 yards on four receptions heading into Week 6. It seems the Niners have finally found a shutdown corner to rely on. Jimmie Ward and Tremaine Brock have been successful this year as well and have only scratched the surface of their potential.

Safety

At safety the team has stout veteran strong safety Antoine Bethea and free safety Eric Reid, both of which should stick around for at least another two years. Given the status of this group it’s more likely the team spends a late round pick only for depth purposes or special teams.

Players to Scout

CB Sojourn Shelton, Wisconsin (5-foot-9, 178 lbs.) – Projected Rd. 7 – FA

CB Duke Dawson, Florida ( 5-foot-10, 200 lbs) – Projected Rd. 6 – FA