San Francisco 49ers: 4 players who benefit early from training camp injuries
No. 3: DB Tarvarius Moore
After a rookie season, which saw the 49ers try to move defensive back Tarvarius Moore from the safety he played in college to cornerback, it appears the former Southern Miss Golden Eagle is back to where he feels most comfortable.
And while Ward’s injury could present opportunities for players like Adrian Colbert and Antone Exum, several things are reportedly working in Moore’s favor, allowing him to take the most advantage of Ward’s absence.
For one, new 49ers defensive backs coach Joe Woods prefers him back there (h/t The Athletic’s David Lombardi):
Also just spoke with 49ers DB coach Joe Woods, who expressed excitement about Tarvarius Moore's current opportunity at FS. It sounds as if this is a position switch the 49ers are seriously considering making permanent. They know Moore's speed and that he excelled at FS in college
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) May 29, 2019
For another, given his speed and ball skills, it certainly makes sense to place him there, giving him a chance to do things like this.
Given the rough year Colbert had back at free safety during his sophomore season (he finished the season with an unspectacular 31.7 Pro Football Focus grade, before being placed on IR in late October, ending his season), Moore should be allowed the chance to take the free safety position and make it his during training camp.