49ers player stock watch halfway through 2018 preseason

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San Francisco 49ers Houston Texans Preseason Week 2 grades and analysis

HOUSTON, TX – AUGUST 18: Tarvarus McFadden #33 of the San Francisco 49ers loses control of a ball intended for Braxton Miller #13 of the Houston Texans in the fourth quarter of a preseason game at NRG Stadium on August 18, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

49ers’ Young Defensive Backs

Behind Richard Sherman, Jimmie Ward and K’Waun Williams, the 49ers don’t exactly boast a lot of experience within their secondary.

On one hand, this is a concern for the regular season, as young defensive backs tend to struggle transitioning from the college ranks to the pros. On the other, however, the added field time provides great experience with both Sherman and Williams out with injuries.

More from Niner Noise

A number of first-year 49ers defensive backs made plays Saturday night in Houston. Undrafted rookie cornerback Emmanuel Moseley picked off the Niners’ lone interception of the night, helping his chances to crack the back end of the 53-man roster. Fellow UDFA cornerback Tarvarus McFadden also nearly had a pick, providing excellent coverage all the way and nearly coming down with the interception.

Meanwhile, rookie cornerback Tarvarius Moore had a key pass breakup, using his long arms to get in between the pass and Houston’s receiving target in the second half.

Moore is making the transition from college free safety to cornerback. The hope is he can use his natural frame, skill set and speed to be the long-term replacement for Sherman, who turned 30 years old before the season began.

The good, bad & ugly from 49ers' 16-13 preseason loss to Texans. dark. Next

So far, it’s looking as if Moore and the other young defensive backs are coming along nicely.