49ers training camp 2018: 10 takeaways from Week 2

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SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 12: Adrian Colbert #38 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a play against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

No. 5: Safety Adrian Colbert Proving He Can Break Out in 2018

Like Richie James, seventh-round draft picks aren’t expected to be impact players early on, let alone make a starting role on a 53-man roster.

Safety Adrian Colbert did that in 2017, though, and all signs are pointing to him being a key component of San Francisco’s defense this season.

Colbert already has two pick-six interceptions during training camp, the last of which came on Thursday following a dropped pass by wide receiver Kendrick Bourne towards the end of the day, according to the San Jose Mercury News‘ Cam Inman.

So why is this important?

For starters, one can look at how effective a 30-year-old Richard Sherman might be with quality safety help over the top. Sherman’s top-end speed has never been elite, prompting former 49ers cornerback Tarell Brown to say (h/t Bleacher Report) Sherman will need help over the top, similar to how Sherman excelled with Seattle Seahawks All-Pro safety Earl Thomas, previously.

Earlier this offseason, Niner Noise detailed why Colbert’s 2018 efforts will be so critical to the Niners’ chances this season. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh operates a Cover 3, single-high safety scheme (the spot Colbert plays), and the second-year defensive back is going to be responsible for covering a lot of ground this upcoming season.

So far, he’s rising to the challenge.