Injury to Harris limits 49ers’ secondary

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Thursday, May 21, 2009  |  Comments( 1 )

San Francisco 49ers
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San Francisco 49ers cornerback Walt Harris tore his ACL during a voluntary workout earlier this week, further limiting an already thin secondary. With Harris likely out for the season, San Francisco acted quickly by signing Dre Bly to fill the void left by the injured 13-year veteran.

Although Bly was signed to start opposite of Nate Clements, either Tarell Brown or Shawntae Spencer will be depended on to step up as a nickel back. Brown is relatively unproven and would be a liability in pass defense to start the season. Meanwhile, Spencer is a former starter who lost his job when Clements signed as a free agent a couple years ago.

Moving down on the depth chart, the 49ers are limited with Marcus Hudson and journeyman return specialist Allen Rossum next in line. Neither player can be relied on at this point, and head coach Mike Singletary could have his eye on more reinforcements in the secondary as a result.

If San Francisco looks to the free-agent market again, there are a handful of capable players. Veteran Chris McAlister, whom the Baltimore Ravens released, has the ability to step in as a starter when healthy. In addition, Roderick Hood -- recently released by the Arizona Cardinals -- would provide the 49ers with a younger option.

Even though San Francisco needed fresh blood at cornerback, it opted to pass on one in the draft. The 49ers’ front office is likely kicking itself for not securing more depth at the position in case of an injury of this nature. The team did sign three undrafted free agents in Terrail Lambert, Carlos Thomas and Jahi Word-Daniels, but it would prefer not to rush them into action.

While Harris’ best playing days were behind him, he brought experience and stability to the 49ers’ secondary. Even with Bly now in the mix, San Francisco’s pass defense is rather vulnerable heading into the 2009 campaign.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To ...
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