The San Francisco 49ers are poised for significant changes in their secondary as the 2025 season approaches. Following the offseason that saw the departure of key contributors, injuries to critical players, and underwhelming performances from starters, there’s an open competition for the safety positions. Ji'Ayir Brown looks to be a steadfast presence, while the return of Talanoa Hufanga from injury could shake up the lineup. With training camp set to commence, the pressure is on for these players to prove their worth and secure a starting role.

The San Francisco 49ers have experienced a significant shakeup in their secondary this offseason, losing key players such as Talanoa Hufanga to the Denver Broncos and Charvarius Ward to the Indianapolis Colts through free agency. This development raises questions about the team's defensive strategy going forward, particularly with strong safety Malik Mustapha still recovering from a serious knee injury sustained last season.

In light of these changes, Ji'Ayir Brown is set to take over as the starting free safety, following a promising second season where he saw substantial playing time. The absence of experienced players may lead defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to rely on less proven talents like Marques Sigle, a fifth-round draft pick out of Kansas State. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the effectiveness of these new defensive backs could prove crucial for maintaining the 49ers' competitiveness.

The San Francisco 49ers face significant challenges in their secondary ahead of mandatory minicamp. With starting safety Talanoa Hufanga departing in free agency and injuries affecting key players like Malik Mustapha and Ji'Ayir Brown, the team’s depth is questionable. Both Mustapha and Brown are currently sidelined, raising concerns about their early-season availability. As a response, the 49ers have signed Jason Pinnock and Richie Grant to bolster the safety position, opening up opportunities for them to potentially secure starting roles.

The situation demands robust performances from Pinnock and Grant to stabilize the defense. The 49ers' reliance on these new acquisitions underscores the urgency for them to adapt quickly and effectively, particularly with training camp around the corner. The upcoming offseason practices will be crucial for assessing how these players can fill the gaps left by injuries and free agency losses.

In a two-round mock draft that raises eyebrows, the San Francisco 49ers are projected to select safety Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina at the 11th overall pick, despite the presence of top offensive tackle Armand Membou. Emmanwori's impressive combine performance has turned heads, but passing on a potential franchise tackle seems contrary to the 49ers' strategic needs, especially as Trent Williams nears retirement.

In the second round, the 49ers are speculated to draft Alabama's Tyler Booker, an interior offensive lineman. While Booker is a solid prospect, the decision appears puzzling given other available talents, such as Ohio State's defensive end JT Tuimoloau. These choices could signify a shift in the 49ers' roster philosophy that may lead to questions about their long-term vision for building a competitive team.

Joshua Dobbs is set to make a start for the San Francisco 49ers in Week 18 against the Arizona Cardinals, filling in for the injured Brock Purdy. After a tumultuous 2023 season, where he played for multiple teams, Dobbs is looking to showcase his skills as he approaches free agency in March. He views this opportunity as an audition for not only the 49ers but for all NFL teams.

This season has been a stark contrast to last year, which saw Dobbs starting for the Tennessee Titans and then moving through trades to the Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, and Minnesota Vikings. He started 12 games in total, solidifying his position as a capable quarterback.