49ers 2017 NFL Draft Positional Preview: Cornerback

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Nov 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas (13) scores a touchdown against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tramaine Brock (26) during the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The New Orleans Saints defeated the San Francisco 49ers 41-23. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

2017 Predictions

I remember former Niner Noise author, and current Niners Wire contributor, Jerod Brown predicting Tramaine Brock might lose his starting job in 2016.

It didn’t happen then. But it likely does now.

Remember, Brock isn’t a good scheme fit under Robert Saleh. Unless the 49ers want to consistently put a safety over the top on Brock’s side of the field, it doesn’t make much sense to keep him in such a role.

Additionally, the 49ers are likely to give up on disappointments like Keith Reaser, Dontae Johnson and probably Will Redmond (redshirted in 2016).

Signing K’Waun Williams addresses the nickel concern. But San Francisco will wind up making two, or even three, cornerback selections in the NFL Draft.

More from Niner Noise

A guess would have them spending a second-round pick on a corner, perhaps on someone like Gareon Conley if he slips into Round 2. And Niner Noise’s Akash Anavarathan made the case for Colorado’s Ahkello Witherspoon, likely in Round 3.

Depth-Chart Prediction

Rashard Robinson
rookie
K’Waun Williams (nickel)
Reserves: Tramaine Brock, rookie, rookie

Brock could still wind up being the starter in Week 1 but probably loses that job at some point in the regular season.

Ideally, a promising prospect winds up in this starting role. And while young defensive backs tend to struggle early at the NFL level, the 49ers can be patient with player development.

Next: 49ers NFL Draft Positional Preview: Safety

Atop the hope will be San Francisco boasting two or three corners capable of shutting down portions of the field and demonstrating ballhawking ability missing from the Niners defense in recent years.