49ers training camp: 5 players off to a hot start in 2020

No. 2: 49ers Safety Marcell Harris

While not as hyped as some of the other training camp competitions, there’s going to be a battle to determine the prime backup at strong safety, mostly between third-year pro Marcell Harris and the rookie, Jared Mayden.

Harris had his share of coverage gaffes last season, notably those two touchdowns allowed in relief of the starter, Jaquiski Tartt, during the Niners’ Week 14 win over the New Orleans Saints. Those reinforced the notion Harris’ pass-coverage skills weren’t particularly great, and it wasn’t out of the question San Francisco was going to consider an upgrade between now and the regular season, potentially Mayden.

Yet Harris has been a standout at camp, first recording an interception during Sunday’s workouts and then backing it up again on Monday with a pick against No. 2 quarterback Nick Mullens:

Pass coverage was the main element Harris needed to flash during camp to improve his chances of sticking around on the roster, and it would appear as if he’s doing as much as he possibly can.

Should this trend continue, it’s likely Mayden who finds himself ticketed towards being waived and hopefully landing on the practice squad. So far, the backup role is Harris’ to lose.