49ers: An early look at the 5 biggest needs in the 2023 NFL draft
5 biggest draft needs No. 4: Safety
Safety Talanoa Hufanga is having himself a season. If the ability he showed this year is a constant throughout his career, he’ll be a perennial All-Pro for many years to come. To step in the way he did and perform lights out is something special, and his breakout couldn’t have come at a better time.
Veteran Jimmie Ward has been a mainstay at his position for quite some time. The best part about his presence is the consistency he brings to the field every time he suits up. However, Ward is 31 years old and has no viable heir to the throne.
#49ers
— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) December 26, 2022
Talanoa Hufanga.
This is an excellent coverage rep in Quarters technique (bottom of the screen).
Inside alignment (vs. No.2). Don’t give ground at the snap. Patient footwork. Quick weave. Anticipate & drive on the break.
That’s how you challenge a route. pic.twitter.com/nK67wJwU1R
Prior to Hufanga’s emergence, the 49ers haven’t had a pairing like this in quite a long time. In fact, these two could be argued as the best duo since the mid-1990’s pairing of Tim McDonald and Merton Hanks. That team would go on to win Super Bowl 29 in dominating fashion.
Waiting in the wings is solid depth, but no one stands out as a clear-cut choice to take over when Ward calls it quits. Tashaun Gipson has provided exceptional play, but at 32 years of age the clock is ticking for him as well.
It would be a shame if the front office failed to bridge the gap by having a ready starter in the wings for whenever they needed one.
Hopefully for the faithful, the front office feels the same way.