5 SF 49ers who stepped up most amid injuries
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: SF 49ers Cornerback Jason Verrett
Like the defensive line, San Francisco’s cornerbacks have endured a ton of attrition over these first four weeks. In addition to Richard Sherman, the Niners have lost fellow cornerbacks Ahkello Witherspoon (hamstring), Emmanuel Moseley (concussion) and K’Waun Williams (knee) to injuries already this season.
Those were pegged to be the starting foursome for the SF 49ers this season, and all have or will miss significant time.
Like Kevin Givens, veteran cornerback
wasn’t expected to be a major contributor to the Niners defense this season. Verrett, after all, has his own lengthy injury history after appearing in just six regular-season games from 2016 through 2019 and seeing a mere two snaps for San Francisco last year.
Despite that, the SF 49ers had faith to bring him back on a one-year deal for 2020, and they should be glad they did.
After missing the first two weeks with a hamstring injury, Verrett has started the last two games and notched six tackles and one pass breakup en route to a solid 66.0 overall Pro Football Focus grade.
For a player many thought wouldn’t make the Niners roster, Verrett’s production in relief of the starters has been excellent.