49ers 2020 NFL Draft needs: Ranking top 5 safety options

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Xavier McKinney, Nick Fitzgerald, Alabama Crimson Tide, Mississippi State Bulldogs

Xavier McKinney #15 of the Alabama Crimson Tide and Nick Fitzgerald #7 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

The San Francisco 49ers may need to find an upgrade at safety if cap considerations force some changes. Niner Noise looks at the five top safeties in the 2020 NFL Draft class.

One of the most pleasant surprises for the San Francisco 49ers in 2019 was the improved play at safety, as well as the increased depth at the position.

Jaquiski Tartt and Jimmie Ward both had excellent seasons as the starters, while the young duo of Tarvarius Moore and Marcell Harris both showed flashes as the depth pieces throughout the season.

Of the four, Ward is the only free agent of the group. Whether or not he can be extended is an interesting problem.

Ward can only expect to be the fourth priority for San Francisco. Tight end George Kittle is the heart of the team and is due a big payday, while the defensive line duo of DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead will be prioritized before Ward, as the philosophy is in investing in an elite defensive line over the defensive backfield.

If Ward is a salary cap casualty as is allowed to walk in free agency, the Niners will be likely adding to the group, either with a new starter or as depth, depending on how they view Moore and Harris.

While the 2020 NFL Draft class isn’t the richest when it comes to safety, there are plenty of players who could pique the 49ers interests. Especially if they trade down from the No. 31 overall selection.

Here are the five current top safeties in the draft pool the Niners may like.