Santa Clara, CA – June 9, 2025
The San Francisco 49ers are once again a Super Bowl contender on paper. But there's one glaring weakness that could ruin it all — cornerback. With depth dwindling and top receivers flooding the NFC, the clock is ticking for the Niners to make a decisive move. Now, NFL insiders are urging the team to pursue a blockbuster signing before it’s too late.
San Francisco’s defense has never lacked talent. Yet, with Charvarius Ward carrying most of the load, and no clear CB2 behind him, opposing offenses could have a field day. Deommodore Lenoir has shown flashes, but consistency remains an issue. The situation grew more concerning after the departure of Isaiah Oliver and an underwhelming offseason at the position.
One name rising quickly in league circles as the potential fix? Xavien Howard — the four-time Pro Bowler and 29-interception veteran, recently cut by the Dolphins. While some question if Howard is still elite, others argue that his football IQ and ball skills would instantly elevate the 49ers’ secondary.
“This roster is too good to leave a hole this big at cornerback,” said an NFC executive. “Just look at what the Dolphins did last year — they went all-in for Jalen Ramsey. That’s the kind of urgency the 49ers need right now.”
Indeed, the Dolphins’ aggressive move for Ramsey in 2023 paid off when their defense became one of the stingiest in the AFC before injuries struck. Ramsey brought leadership, swagger, and shutdown ability. Howard, while not quite at Ramsey’s level at this point in his career, could bring similar intangibles and help mentor the young defensive backs — all while filling a crucial starting role.
Bosa and the front seven can’t carry the defense forever. And with elite NFC wideouts like A.J. Brown, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and now Terry McLaurin joining contenders, failing to upgrade at cornerback could prove fatal in a playoff shootout.
With over $14 million in cap space, the 49ers have the financial flexibility to offer Howard a short-term, incentive-heavy deal. General manager John Lynch has pulled off big mid-season moves before. This one might be the most important yet.
“Howard might not be prime Ramsey,” a former DB coach said, “but in this scheme, under Saleh, he could be just what they need.”
The message from fans and analysts is clear: don’t wait for this to become a problem in Week 10. Fix it now.
Will the 49ers act like contenders — or gamble on a fragile secondary in a loaded NFC?
