49ers have intriguing options at nickel cornerback in 2022
By Peter Panacy
49ers option No. 2: Dontae Johnson, a fan-favorite
Another Dontae Johnson appreciation post.
The seemingly inevitable veteran defensive back is probably going to be cut, re-signed, cut and then re-signed again a few times by San Francisco this season. It’s just what happens, and it’s probably brutal to be the 53rd player on a 53-man roster.
However, the 49ers do appreciate Johnson’s versatility.
What makes Johnson unique is his ability to also play more than just a couple of spots within the secondary, including slot duties, and he did so on 72 snaps last season as a reserve option, according to Pro Football Focus.
Keep in mind, however, Johnson has a ways to go before even securing a spot on the 53-man roster (this seems like a yearly thing), yet he’d likely be the first player called upon in the event of an injury to one of the Niners’ presumed starters.