San Francisco 49ers: Grading each position heading into 2018 training camp

Key Additions: Richard Sherman, D.J. Reed

Key Departures: Dontae Johnson

One of the positions the 49ers all but completely overhauled this offseason was cornerback. The only two notable returnees from last year from this group are nickel corner K’Waun Williams and second-year back Ahkello Witherspoon.

Replacing former Niner Dontae Johnson with three-time All-Pro Richard Sherman is clearly an upgrade. Sherman, meanwhile, has yet to be cleared from a 2017 Achilles injury but is expected to be healthy for training camp. Assuming he’s good to go, San Francisco will have a quality starting tandem on the outside.

But, just like safety, there are more than a few concerns about depth.

Perhaps the only veteran depth piece this season is fifth-year defensive back Jimmie Ward who, because of the talent at safety, is moving back to corner. But Ward has also finished three of his four seasons at the pro level on injured reserve. It’s safe to say he’s not a part of the 49ers’ long-term plans.

Tarvarious Moore, who’s listed as a safety, has the body type for cornerback. And D.J. Reed, a fifth-round draft pickup, will compete for nickel duties.

Yet if Sherman or Witherspoon regress or suffer an injury, the Niners depth will wind up being tested in a major way.

That keeps this group’s grade at above average.