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One year ago, many 49er fans would've laughed at the title of this piece.
But, in 2021, veteran defensive back Dontae Johnson played an extremely crucial role for the 49ers, slotting in key reps at nickelback, cornerback, safety, and special teams, especially during San Francisco's must-win Week 18 matchup with the Los Angeles Rams to secure a playoff spot and again in the divisional round matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
With Johnson reaching his age-31 season, can the 49ers find their next Dontae Johnson to eventually replace the 2014 fourth-rounder?
Meet Alcorn State defensive back Juwan Taylor.
Taylor, who stands at 5'11 and weighs 200 pounds, was selected to both the HBCU combine, reserved for the top 40 HBCU prospects, and the HBCU Legacy Bowl, where he showcased his versatility playing cornerback in addition to his primary position of safety.
In the early stages of his career, Taylor functioned primarily as an in-the-box safety, garnering 89 tackles during his 2019 season, which led Alcorn State, despite being a defensive back. Additionally, Taylor was named the 2019 SWAC Championship Defensive MVP, when he put on a masterclass box-score performance, tying a career-high 11 tackles to go with an interception and a forced fumble in the Alcorn State victory.
After the 2020 season was derailed by COVID-19, Taylor transitioned into a leader for the Alcorn State locker room, not only through his vocal input, but also via the example he showcased every Saturday on the field.
Originally starting at community college prior to transferring to Alcorn State, Taylor embraces the chip on his shoulder and understands the difficulties of being drafted from a lesser-known college. However, his confidence in his ability remains unwavering, and he's willing to continue working for a roster or practice squad spot, where he'll look to take advantage of any opportunity thrown his way.
As a versatile safety, Taylor models his game after former All-Pro Tyrann Mathieu, whose tenacity in the run game, as well as his ability to cover made him the figurehead of the Kansas City Chiefs defense over the past few seasons.
Taylor plays with aggression and swagger, similar to Los Angeles Rams defensive back Jalen Ramsey, indicating that there isn't a moment too big for the young player as he matures ahead of the NFL Draft.
In addition to Ramsey, Taylor's a fan of newly-acquired 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward, who himself came from a lesser-known university in Middle Tennessee State after transferring from Hinds Community College.
While Taylor might not have the résumé of higher-ranked cornerbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft, his frame and tackling ability makes him an intriguing candidate for the 49ers as an undrafted rookie, where they've had much success in evaluating talent.
While he may not make the roster in 2022, his versatility could prove him to be the next Dontae Johnson in the NFL, who the 49ers have clearly valued during his time in San Francisco.
Former NFL exec on 49ers' Brock Purdy: "I think he needs to find more fire"
By David Bonilla
Apr 14
Brock Purdy isn't one to seek the spotlight. He exudes politeness, respect, and an even-keeled demeanor when speaking to reporters during interviews. Nothing we've seen from the San Francisco 49ers quarterback's time off the field would indicate that it's a facade.
However, on the field, Purdy can show some fire, particularly after a big play or in an effort to ensure his teammates are on the same page as him. While praising the third-year quarterback, one unnamed former NFL executive expressed a desire to see more of that fire from Purdy in the future, believing it is crucial to his development.
"Brock Purdy is one of the most talented arms that I've seen," the former executive recently
Brock Purdy aims to take 'next steps' with 49ers, addresses future contract
By David Bonilla
Apr 15
Cam Inman of Bay Area News Group caught up with Brock Purdy over the weekend as the San Francisco 49ers quarterback hosted his inaugural youth football camp at Levi's Stadium. Today, Purdy and most of his teammates will report to the team for the start of the offseason program, which will be limited to meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation over the next couple of weeks.
While this offseason holds significance for Purdy as he seeks to build upon an impressive 2023 campaign that saw him set a single-season franchise
No Huddle Podcast: Are the 49ers Showing Their Hand?
By Site Staff
Apr 18
(Episode 331) — Brian Renick is in solo to debunk the rumors surrounding Brandon Aiyuk being sent to Pittsburgh, why staying on the 49ers is in Aiyuk's best interest, what to make of the top 30 visits, which position group has gained the most traction as the most likely to be selected in the first round, why drafting best available isn't a bad choice and more.
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You can listen to the latest "No Huddle Podcast" episode above, from our dedicated podcast page, on
Rumor: Steelers believe they can acquire 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk at a bargain
By David Bonilla
Apr 17
According to Sports Illustrated contributor Noah Strackbein, who writes for "All Steelers" on the network, there's a level of confidence within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization that they can strike a deal for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk—and at a bargain rate.
"According to a team source, the Steelers and 49ers trade talks are real," Strackbein wrote. "While nothing is imminent, they 'would be surprised if it didn't happen.' But it all comes down to compensation, and Pittsburgh isn't willing to budge much on price."
While it seems unlikely that the 49ers would part ways with Aiyuk for anything less than a first-round draft
