The San Francisco 49ers added nine players to their roster in the 2018 NFL Draft. We break down the Niners’ draft, and discuss each pick’s expected role for the upcoming 2018 season and beyond.
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan were full of surprises during the 2018 NFL Draft. While the 49ers added a number of talented players at key positions, they avoided the team’s most immediate areas of need — edge rusher and interior offensive line.
Let’s take a look at the fourth of the San Francisco 49ers’ nine draft picks:
Round 3 – Pick #95: Tarvarius Moore, DB, Southern Miss
Although Tarvarius Moore played safety during his time at Southern Mississippi, his long arms and 6-foot-2 frame make him a fit at outside cornerback in 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s defensive scheme. Moore’s experience as a kick returner has the potential to give him an immediate opportunity for playing time while he learns his new position with the team.
Moore is full of athleticism — including 4.32 speed — but lacks experience, particularly against high-caliber talent. The defensive back played two seasons at community college before transferring to Southern Mississippi, where he only started his senior year. Even with his limited playing time, Pro Football Focus ranked Moore third in their list of safety prospects in this year’s draft.
He does have experience in man coverage against slot receivers, and appears fluid enough in coverage to transition to the outside. However, Moore will need to gain strength to compete in press coverage against stronger NFL wide receivers.
Moore has a nose for the ball, and would have added to his college interception totals if it weren’t for some untimely drops. Moore is a big hitter for a player of his size, and could be an asset in run defense, particularly if he transitions to cornerback:
With the 49ers’ abundance of players at the safety position — and Jaquiski Tartt‘s recent contract extension — Moore’s quickest way onto the field would be at cornerback. Although he’s somewhat raw due to a lack of playing experience, he certainly has the physical tools necessary to play at the next level. Don’t be surprised if Moore is one of the first corners off the San Francisco 49ers’ bench by the beginning of the 2018 season.
About the Author: Chris Wilson
