The San Francisco 49ers spent a third round pick on cornerback Will Redmond this spring, but his status remains in doubt. Redmond tore his ACL last year, but was back practicing at the start of training camp this year. However, through two preseason games, he has not played any snaps.
On Monday, Jim O’Neil was asked about Redmond’s status. O’Neil praised Redmond’s work thus far, but he also said “I don’t know if he’s all the way back yet.” When asked what work Redmond was not doing thus far in camp, he did not offer specifics. He did say that he thought Redmond would get some playing time in before the preseason is done, but he also stated that it wasn’t his call with injured players.
Chris Davis has been serving as the team’s starting nickel back thus far, and based on two games, it is his job to lose. O’Neil just about confirmed (“it’s look like it”) that Jimmie Ward and Tramaine Brock will be starting on the outside. He said that Rashard Robinson and Keith Reaser were competing for opportunities as well. Ward will be starting outside, but in attempts to get the “best 11” on the field, maybe we see him get some work in the slot on occasion. My guess is he primarily plays outside, but his first two years in the league leave him well cross-trained to work inside if needed.