It's important to note, however, that this depth chart is compiled by the 49ers' communications staff, not the coaching staff, meaning it serves more as a projection than a final decision for the start of the 2025 season.
With Malik Mustapha sidelined due to injury, many fans are eager to see rookie Marques Sigle—who impressed during the preseason—earn a starting role in Sunday's opener.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan admitted that he already knows who the starting safeties will be, but he's not ready to disclose that information publicly. When asked if holding back the names of those players provided a tactical advantage for the upcoming matchup, Shanahan said, "I don't think [it's] a huge advantage. There could be a little advantage. I don't want to give any advantage."
Of course, Shanahan didn't rule out the possibility that the unofficial depth chart could be accurate.
"I love Ji'Ayir," Shanahan said. "He got his opportunity when Huf (former 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga) got hurt, and he came in—I want to say it was seven games his rookie year—after Huf got hurt, and I thought he had a hell of a year.
"I thought he battled a lot of stuff last year with injuries, and he battled a lot of stuff in this offseason, too, and then had a setback in training camp where he missed some time. But the more Tig (Brown) is out there, Ji'Ayir, the better he gets, the more consistent he gets. But he's just been up and down with injuries."
The mystery around who lines up at safety against the Seahawks remains unsolved—for now.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Kyle Shanahan reveals expectations for Brock Purdy in Week 18 showdown vs. Seahawks
The San Francisco 49ers have a lot at stake in Saturday night's regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. The winner will claim the NFC West title and secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs, which includes home-field advantage throughout the... -
Kyle Shanahan previews 49ers-Seahawks Week 18 matchup
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters ahead of Tuesday's practice as the team gears up for its Week 18 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Here's everything he said. Transcript provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Opening... -
Kyle Shanahan shares final updates ahead of 49ers-Bears Week 17 matchup
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke to reporters following Friday's practice, providing final updates ahead of the team's Week 17 matchup against the Chicago Bears. Here's everything he said. Transcript provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications... -
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan reveals key goal to beat Colts in Week 16
The San Francisco 49ers clinched a playoff berth Sunday after the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Detroit Lions. Still, the 49ers have plenty at stake heading into Monday night's Week 16 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Entering the game, San Francisco is slotted as...