The Best 49ers Corner You Have Never Heard Of

Santa Clara, CA – June 14, 2025

While all eyes are on rising rookies like Upton Stout and household names like Deommodore Lenoir, one name quietly making noise in the 49ers' secondary has gone almost entirely unnoticed — but not for long. Veteran cornerback Isaac Yiadom, once a journeyman fighting for roster spots, is now positioning himself as one of the most valuable reserve defenders on San Francisco's roster.

Yiadom, who signed with the 49ers in the offseason, was originally a third-round pick of the Denver Broncos in 2018. Since then, he's bounced around the league, spending time with the Giants, Packers, and most recently, the Saints. But it’s in San Francisco where he's finally showing signs of reaching his full potential.

“He’s just so dependable,” one 49ers staffer reportedly told Niners Noise. “He doesn’t talk much, he doesn’t flash, but he’s always in the right spot. And when you need someone to step in for a snap or two — or even a game — you know he’s going to hold the line.”

Yiadom’s coverage skills have quietly improved year after year, and in 2023, he posted a career-best passer rating allowed when targeted — better than many starters. That level of consistency is exactly what a Super Bowl-contending team like the 49ers needs when facing high-octane NFC passing attacks.

With Charvarius Ward gone and young corners still finding their footing, Yiadom offers something rare: experience, stability, and adaptability. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, back in the Bay after his stint with the Jets, is expected to implement more zone-based concepts this year — and Yiadom’s football IQ makes him an ideal fit.

He may not be the name fans buy on a jersey, and he may not be the one plastered on highlight reels. But come crunch time, Isaac Yiadom just might be the cornerback who keeps the 49ers defense from falling apart at the seams.

“He’s the best corner on this team no one’s talking about,” one NFC scout said. “If someone goes down, Yiadom could be the one who saves them.”

He’s not flashy. He’s not famous. But in a league where depth wins championships, Isaac Yiadom might just be the 49ers’ best-kept secret.