It appears the San Francisco 49ers will not face Washington cornerback Josh Norman next week. We heard earlier this week following Monday Night Football, that he was likely to miss a few weeks with a rib injury. On Friday, Norman confirmed the news in a tweet, indicating he will be out for four weeks.
#FREE!!!
— *Joshua R. Norman (@J_No24) October 6, 2017
But 4weeks- ♂️fml
The 49ers will face Bashaud Breeland as Washington’s No. 1 cornerback, with Quinton Dunbar likely to take over as the No. 2. Kendall Fuller will likely continue serving as their nickel back.
Washington currently ranks No. 6 in total defense and No. 7 against the pass, according to Football Outsiders. Based on FO’s current rankings, this will be the highest ranked defense the 49ers have faced to date. The only team ranked higher right now on the rest of the 49ers schedule is Houston, which FO ranks No. 4. Washington’s defense ranks fifth in adjusted sack rate, so it’s safe to say this will be a sizable challenge for the inconsistent 49ers offense. The offensive line has done a solid enough job keeping pressure off Brian Hoyer, but things will get a little more difficult next week.