3 options 49ers have to replace All-Pro safety Talanoa Hufanga

Option 1: 49ers can elevate a young practice squad player

The 49ers currently have a safety on their practice squad, second-year player Tayler Hawkins.

The former San Diego State defensive back played well during the preseason but was released with an injury settlement after breaking his hand during the final preseason contest. Hawkins returned to the practice squad on Oct. 24.

Because Ji'Ayir Brown is more-or-less locked in as the starter next to Tashaun Gipson, the idea here is that the 49ers need someone who can step into Brown's role on special teams while also serving as potential depth.

George Odum is probably the next man up in case of further thinning of the unit, so it seems more likely than not that Hawkins will factor in as someone the Niners feel comfortable running out on special teams.

They may add another defensive back to their practice squad considering they don't have anyone else holding down that position after the elevation of cornerback Shemar Jean-Charles last week, but as a means of replacing Talanoa Hufanga on the roster, elevating Hawkins seems like the likeliest move.