It was not too long ago that many people thought that the San Francisco 49ers were in a class of their own not only in the NFC but the NFL as a whole. They were 5-0 and steamrolling anyone who was going up against them.
In their first five games, San Francisco scored at least 30 points in each of them and outside of a field goal at the buzzer by the Los Angeles Rams, defeating each team by double-digit points. But, in the last two weeks, the 49ers have fallen on hard times.
They are now riding a two-game losing streak, being defeated by the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings on the road. They will face another tough test in Week 8, hosting the Cincinnati Bengals coming off of a bye at home.
Injuries have played a part in the 49ers’ recent struggles, as the offense isn’t clicking at the same level it has previously. But, the offense isn’t where one NFL writer believes they need help. Instead, Enzo Flojo of ClutchPoints believes cornerback is the most pressing need the team has.
Their game against the Vikings on Monday Night Football was a prime example of why some reinforcements in the secondary are needed. When the 49ers’ blitz doesn’t get home, they are susceptible to getting beat. Even without star wide receiver Justin Jefferson in the lineup, Minnesota found success downfield with Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and Brandon Powell.
The scheme that defensive coordinator Steve Wilks runs will result in some difficult assignments for his defensive backs. But Chavarius Ward and Deommodore Lenoir could certainly use some help back there.
One potential target for the 49ers could be Kenny Moore II of the Indianapolis Colts. He has been an elite slot cornerback the last few seasons and would provide the 49ers with a big upgrade in their secondary.
On an expiring contract, the Colts could look to maximize his value and trade him ahead of the deadline if he isn’t in their long-term plans. In the opinion of Flojo, a third and fifth-round pick from the 49ers would be enough to get a deal done.
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