Early 49ers roster bubble watch after 2020 NFL Draft

Defensive Back

Lock: Emmanuel Moseley, Richard Sherman, K’Waun Williams, Tarvarius Moore, Jimmie Ward, Jaquiski Tartt

Strong Bubble: Jason Verrett, Ahkello Witherspoon, D.J. Reed Jr., Marcell Harris

Weak Bubble: DeMarkus Acy, Chris Edwards, Tim Harris, Dontae Johnson, Jared Mayden

Long Shot: Jermaine Kelly, Teez Tabor, Derrick Kindred

There aren’t too many surprises in the secondary, either, as the 49ers figure to have most of their starting defensive backs in place.

Cornerbacks Richard Sherman and K’Waun Williams will start, while there’s a better-than-good chance Emmanuel Moseley earns the boundary nod opposite Sherman.

Moseley could be challenged by fourth-year pro Ahkello Witherspoon, whose career so far has seen an up-and-down trajectory. General manager John Lynch called out Witherspoon earlier this offseason, so the cornerback will be under the microscope.

At safety, there’s little reason to assume anyone else other than Jimmie Ward and Jaquiski Tartt. The only question is who’ll back them up.

Third-year pro Tarvarius Moore proved himself a versatile backup, both for free safety and cornerback duties. He’s safe, while fellow defensive backs Jason Verrett, D.J. Reed and Marcell Harris stand a good shot, if everyone stays healthy.

It’ll be an uphill battle for undrafted defensive backs DeMarkus Acy and Jared Mayden. But keep an eye on both during training camp.