Predicting 49ers defensive starting lineup before 2020 NFL Draft
By Peter Panacy
Safety
Free Safety: Jimmie Ward
Strong Safety: Jaquiski Tartt
Re-signing Jimmie Ward alleviates one of the biggest concerns San Francisco had this offseason, but only to a point.
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Ward still comes with an injury history despite being Pro Football Focus‘ sixth-best safety in 2019. After all, the 28 year old has landed on season-ending injured reserve in four of his six seasons at the pro level.
This puts pressure on the 49ers to ensure the continued development of third-year pro safety Tarvarius Moore remains on pace. Even Ward endorsed Moore for a starting job if the former wasn’t able to come to terms with the Niners.
A similar feeling could exist at strong safety, too, where veteran defensive back Jaquiski Tartt enters the final season of his current contract.
Tartt’s injuries the past two years opened the door for 2018 rookie Marcell Harris to see some significant on-field time, yet the latter looks far more a run-stopping defensive back as opposed to someone the 49ers can rely upon in coverage.
Next. 3 Niners players who must play a bigger role in 2020. dark
Perhaps that prompts San Francisco to make another move for a safety in the draft, which officially kicks off on Thursday, April 23.