49ers have intriguing options at nickel cornerback in 2022

49ers option No. 4: The rookie, Samuel Womack, gets his chance

There are always a number of factors at play when evaluating rookie defensive backs.

First, as is the case with any NFL Draft pick, Samuel Womack might not ever come close to panning out at the pro level. Remember, the average lifespan of an NFL career is a shade over three years.

Second, young defensive backs frequently take time to acclimate to life at the pro level, Ambry Thomas being a recent example, as was Jimmie Ward during the first couple years of his own career.

Womack might have all the intangibles similar to Williams, including his own pro-day workouts.

“[The 49ers and I] talked about playing a majority inside, as well as playing special teams,” Womack said after being drafted. “I also have the versatility to play outside and we talked about that also.”

This opportunity might not come right away, though, especially if Womack needs that extra time to develop despite what otherwise seems to be a perfect-fit situation.

If that’s the case, the Niners still have a remaining contingency plan.