49ers: 5 players who have surprised the most in 2019 so far

5 49ers players who have surprised the most in 2019 so far

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 13: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass while Justin Skule #67 blocks Dante Fowler #56 of the Los Angeles Rams in the third quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on October 13, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 07: K’Waun Williams #24 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after he sacked Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns at Levi’s Stadium on October 07, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

No. 2: Cornerback K’Waun Williams

It shouldn’t be a surprise seeing two 49ers defensive backs on this list. After all, it was the team’s biggest weakness in 2018.

Now, the Niners boast the league’s best pass defense entering Week 7.

A big reason why has been the excellent play of nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams, who was good enough last season, but didn’t exactly stand out in any special way.

Williams has already set a career high with two interceptions on the season, and his Pro Football Focus pass-coverage grade has been an outstanding 81.1. PFF currently ranks him the No. 9 overall cornerback out of 109 qualifiers.

To date, he’s allowed only 50 percent of completions thrown his way, and opposing quarterbacks are posting a passer rating of just 51.5.

That’s outstanding.

Considering the league’s tendency of using three-wide receiver formations, up-to-par efforts from nickel corners is vital today.

Williams is answering the call nicely.