Although the 49ers have never really given the secondary priority when assembling their defence,

last season’s playmaking helped them address some of their defensive line’s problems. There are now a lot of unanswered questions regarding the makeup of their defensive backfield coming into training camp this year. Almost everything else on the depth chart is uncertain, but they have one trustworthy duo.

Prior to the start of training camp, the 49ers at CB have the following important questions:

1. Who’s the third starter?

The 49ers have Deommodore Lenoir and Charvarius Ward locked down at the two starting positions. Every down, they are expected to be on the field, and for nickel packages, the third corner will step on the field. There’s a potential that they’ll have a true competition amongst a few worthy candidates for the nickel CB job rather than merely searching for a man good enough to start.

2. Where is Lenoir going to play?

This builds upon the initial query. Lenoir is adaptable enough to play in the slot or outside. It’s not immediately apparent whether the team intends for him to play inside the base and sub personnel groupings while the third starting wide receiver mans the outside in base packages, or if he will play outside in base packages then kick inside to play the slot in nickel ones. Lenoir ought to get a lot of playing time, though it will probably depend on how the other players line up.

3. Is the rookie ready?

The 49ers’ season may hinge greatly on how quickly second-round choice Renardo Green grows as a rookie. San Francisco drafted him 64th overall, the earliest they have ever selected a cornerback since Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch were in charge of the position. He is a talented athlete. His performance on opening day, should he look the part of a starter, will benefit the 49ers not only in 2024 but also in 2025 and beyond.

4. Did Isaac Yiadom turn a corner?

With the Saints last season, Yiadom had his best campaign as a professional. Prior to that, his main role was as a special teams player. It’s possible that San Francisco only views him as a depth player and special teams player, but if he continues to develop as he did in 2023, he might end up as the third starting wide receiver. The 49ers’ roster would be far deeper if Yiadom from last season was included, as they have had trouble finding quality players.

5. Is Ambry Thomas going to turn a corner?

Turning turns aside, this year will either make or break Thomas. He will get another chance to obtain an entry-level position. If not, he might find himself waiting to be called up for a roster place. If he does, presuming he maintains the starting position for the entire season, he might be in line for a sizable salary in free agency. How Thomas does in training camp will reveal a lot about him.