49ers could see a massive shakeup at cornerback after 2024

The San Francisco 49ers enter 2024 with a strong roster.

There aren't many glaring weaknesses, but this may be the last season they can maintain such a strong roster.

That is why they may see a massive shakeup at cornerback after 2024.

The Niners made a lot of additions in the offseason across their roster. They have built up a lot of depth in key areas to guard against injuries.

One area in which they have done so is at cornerback.

In the offseason, San Francisco signed Isaac Yiadom, Rock Ya-Sin, and Chase Lucas to add to the cornerback depth. Yiadom and Ya-Sin have a good chance at playing time. The team also drafted Renardo Green in the second round of the NFL Draft earlier this year, too, which means after this season, the team will transition to a much different look at cornerback.

Last season, the Niners went with Charvarius Ward, Deomodore Lenoir, and Ambry Thomas for the majority of snaps at cornerback. Ward had a breakout year and was an All-Pro on the outside. Lenoir, meanwhile, impressed at the nickel spot. Thomas was definitely the weak link, though, and his inconsistency cropped up in key moments.

The Niners added so much depth at the position as a way to improve the outside spot opposite Ward.

But they may also be thinking about a potential replacement for Ward, too.

Free agency could bite 49ers' cornerback room hard in 2024

While Ward certainly deserves an extension for his phenomenal 2023 season, the Niners currently have other priorities. They are currently working on extending wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, which is taking all of their attention. Next offseason, quarterback Brock Purdy figures to land a big extension. The 49ers have a lot of money going a lot of places, and Ward may end up being the odd man out and could end up landing a big contract elsewhere.

The same could be said for Lenoir. 2024 is his last year under contract, and if he plays like he did last year, he could end up scoring a big deal in free agency.

On the other hand, Thomas is a very real cut dandidate before this season begins. If he does not prove himself in training camp and the preseason, then the Niners may very well release him.

Ward and Lenoir should see a lot of playing time, but after this season, the position could become much less clear for San Francisco.

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