How 49ers prioritize George Kittle, other contract extensions

Priority No. 3: 49ers Cornerback Richard Sherman

He’s less a priority than the other two defensive backs listed. But getting Richard Sherman back under contract for 2021 and beyond has to be on San Francisco’s list.

True, Sherman will turn 33 years old by the time that season starts. But his veteran savvy and ability to teach a primarily young group of defensive backs, especially if the Niners continue adding new bodies, is vital.

So is his presence as a locker room leader.

There’s another reason why Sherman is a re-sign/extension candidate, though, and it stems from the notion the perennial Pro Bowl cornerback could switch to a safety role at some point late in his career. Strong safety seems like a real possibility, and that position is currently occupied by Jaquiski Tartt — another pending free agent in 2021.

If the 49ers are intent on letting Tartt walk, Sherman’s possible move to safety would help alleviate the loss while freeing up other resources to target other positions of need on the roster.