Others believe the 49ers might focus on their defensive line, selecting an interior defender or pass rusher to improve what has become an underperforming front.
However, Pro Football Network writer Derek Tate has a different vision. He projects the 49ers to strengthen their defensive backfield with the 11th overall pick by selecting Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison.
"The potential loss of starting CB Charvarius Ward could turn one of the San Francisco 49ers' strengths into a position of need if the veteran corner hits free agency," Tate wrote. "The Niners saw encouraging things from press coverage savant Renardo Green his rookie year, which would make the addition of another man-coverage specialist in Benjamin Morrison an intriguing pairing on the back end of this defense."
The 49ers also recently secured cornerback Deommodore Lenoir with a massive contract extension, declaring him a key building block for the future.
Morrison (6-0, 190) missed much of the 2024 season due to a hip injury suffered in October. He finished the year with 20 tackles, four pass breakups, and no touchdowns allowed in six starts. According to Pro Football Focus, opposing quarterbacks posted a 58.4 NFL passer rating when targeting him.
While the deadline to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft has passed for most players, Morrison has until January 24 due to Notre Dame's participation in the National Championship Game.
"Unfortunately, Morrison suffered a season-ending injury early this college football season," Tate continued. "Assuming he declares, Morrison has all the tools with size, length, and reactive quickness to make a long-term impact for a secondary filled with young, promising prospects."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers signing Ogbo Okoronkwo to bolster pass rush depth
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the San Francisco 49ers are signing veteran edge rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo in an effort to bolster their pass rush depth. Source: Veteran edge rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo is signng with the 49ers today. Reunites with DC Raheem Morris from their time... -
49ers roster moves: Nick Zakelj released to make room for O-lineman signing
The San Francisco 49ers have signed offensive lineman Doug Kramer Jr. to a one-year deal. He was among three offensive linemen who recently worked out for the 49ers. To make room on the roster, the team released offensive lineman Nick Zakelj. That leaves quarterback Brock... -
49ers' Kyle Shanahan addresses roster outlook, WR room, and growing injury list
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke to reporters for the first time since his July 14 car accident. In addition to sharing updates on his recovery, Shanahan provided his perspective on the 49ers roster as the team prepares for the 2026 season. "I like our team,"... -
49ers WR Ricky Pearsall's future in doubt after 2027 NFL mock draft
Cameron Sheath of Pro Football and Sports Network released an early projection of the 2027 NFL Draft, and his mock draft could spell trouble for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. In his projection, Sheath has the 49ers selecting Arizona State wide receiver...