49ers vs. Broncos: 5 predictions for San Francisco in preseason bout
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: Tarvarius Moore Plays Three Quarters at Free Safety
The 49ers have been trying to give second-year defensive back Tarvarius Moore all the reps they can at free safety after moving him from cornerback earlier this offseason.
“He’s made tremendous strides,” defensive coordinator Robert Saleh told reporters of Moore. “He hasn’t scratched the ceiling yet, so he’s got to continue working. Every single rep there’s something new for him and he’s definitely going in the right direction, so I’m pumped for him.”
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And San Francisco appears poised to give Moore every possible snap between now and the final depth chart determination.
Moore’s primary competition is veteran defensive back Jimmie Ward, who is being eased into practices slowly after recovering from a broken collarbone during OTAs.
Ward could easily be handed the starting nod in Week 1. For now, though, Moore is making it a tough challenge.
“He’s going to make it very difficult,” Saleh continued when being asked about a competition with Ward.
There’s a strong possibility Ward doesn’t see the field at all during the game, leaving the 49ers with the decision to play Moore less and some of the fringe defensive backs more (no pun intended… maybe), or give their second-year pro every possible chance to earn that starting bid by the start of the regular season.
Next. 3 49ers veterans to watch in preseason vs. Broncos. dark
The Niners and Broncos kick off on Monday, Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. ET at Broncos Stadium at Mile High.