San Francisco 49ers: Top 4 takeaways from the initial depth chart release
By Justin Fried
2. Jimmie Ward still starting at free safety
The lack of attention that the 49ers paid to the safety position this offseason is still something that confounds fans to this day. But that said, there does appear to be a potential savior emerging from the pack.
2018 third-round pick Tarvarius Moore was converted back to his natural position at free safety this offseason and he turned into one of the best success stories of the summer. But despite his stellar play, he’s still listed as the backup behind holdover Jimmie Ward.
Ward was surprisingly brought back on a one-year, $4.5 million deal in the offseason after five injury-riddled campaigns with the team. The versatile defensive back will presumably be moving back to a full-time role at free safety this season — provided he could stay healthy.
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Moore being listed behind Ward was not exactly unexpected, however.
After all, Ward is the veteran and he’s going into his sixth season with the 49ers. Moore, on the other hand, has played just one season in the NFL and he played it at a completely different position.
If Ward struggles or gets injured again, Moore will be the first player called upon to fill his role. And at this point, it would be surprising not to see the former Southern Miss standout be given a shot in the starting lineup sometime this year.
But for now, he’ll be listed behind Ward on the depth chart.