SF 49ers: 4 players who need to see more playing time moving forward

No. 2: SF 49ers Defensive Back Tarvarius Moore

Before re-signing with the SF 49ers last offseason, Jimmie Ward offered up his own endorsement of then-two-year pro Tarvarius Moore as his would-be replacement.

Now amid his third season in the NFL, Moore is showing why it’s good to be patient with young defensive backs, particularly if they’re not highly touted coming out of the NFL Draft. Aside from his blazing speed at his pro day, Moore wasn’t particularly known for being a lockdown defensive back.

He is, however, starting to make plays.

Moore blocked an extra-point attempt on special teams against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 6, and his starting efforts in Week 7 were also pretty notable. Moore used speed to his advantage aplenty during the game in New England. And on cornerback Emmanuel Moseley’s interception, Moore had cut off the inside route and forced Patriots quarterback Cam Newton to overthrow his target.

Right into Moseley’s hands.

Moseley will get the credit for the pick, but Moore should receive a nice hat tip for the effort. Pro Football Focus recognized him at least, giving Moore an excellent 74.3 game grade.

Ward isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, but Moore’s use as a big-nickel defensive back and uber-reserve throughout the secondary could pay off in big ways in the coming seasons.