Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine recently highlighted cornerback as one of the San Francisco 49ers' top remaining needs heading into the 2025 NFL season. Naturally, he identified it as the most important position battle to watch when training camp kicks off in late July.

Replacing former starter Charvarius Ward, now with the Indianapolis Colts, won't be easy. However, second-year cornerback Renardo Green appears ready to step up opposite Deommodore Lenoir after a strong finish to his rookie campaign.


"Things will get interesting in the nickel spot, especially because the Niners aren't exactly solid at linebacker either," Ballentine wrote. "[Bleacher Report] scout Cory Giddings praised third-round pick Upton Stout as a player with the potential to be a 'dynamic nickel defender with additional value as a blitzer.'"

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Many analysts believed the 49ers might target a cornerback with their first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Instead, they bolstered their defensive front by selecting edge rusher Mykel Williams with the No. 11 overall pick.

Stout was the only cornerback drafted by the 49ers and one of just two defensive backs selected overall, joining fifth-round safety Marques Sigle out of Kansas State.

"However, [Stout is] only 5'9", 181 pounds, so he'll need to show he can overcome his lack of size to show he's the best option," Ballentine added. "Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could also slide Deommodore Lenoir inside and play Tre Brown or Darrell Luter Jr. on the outside if Stout isn't ready."

Top summer breakout candidate: Ricky Pearsall


Ballentine also named wide receiver Ricky Pearsall as San Francisco's top breakout candidate for the summer.


"Ricky Pearsall had a mini-breakout over the final two weeks of the season last year," Ballentine noted. "He racked up 14 catches for 210 yards and two touchdowns to give the Niners a bit of hope at the end of a tough season.

The second-year receiver is well-positioned to build on that momentum. With Deebo Samuel gone and Brandon Aiyuk still recovering from ACL and MCL injuries, Pearsall will see an expanded role.

"It would be great to see fellow second-year receiver Jacob Cowing generate some buzz, but he only had four catches last season," Ballentine commented.

While Pearsall is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, he is expected to return in time for training camp. The 49ers have no long-term concerns about his health. They are holding him out of organized team activities (OTAs) and the upcoming mandatory minicamp purely out of an abundance of caution.

"Pearsall should be developing chemistry with Brock Purdy, and there's a good chance he's going to test the corners who are trying to win a job," Ballentine concluded.

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