The San Francisco 49ers continue looking for some veteran help, and this time it’s in the defensive backfield. Adam Schefter is reporting the 49ers are bringing in Jairus Byrd, “along with a group of defensive backs.” There is no word yet on the other DBs joining the workouts.
Byrd was released by the New Orleans Saints this year after three years of his six-year, $54 million contract. Byrd missed 15 games during his first two seasons, and was eventually benched in 2016. The Saints will likely start Kenny Vaccaro and Vonn Bell at the safety positions.
The 49ers are expected to start Jimmie Ward and Eric Reid at safety, with Jaquiski Tartt competing for a role as well. UDFA Lorenzo Jerome is viewed as a potential sleeper for a safety role as well.
Byrd is 30, and likely would be looking at a one-year prove-it deal in hopes of cashing in one more time next offseason. You can never have enough competition, and nobody is guaranteed anything under the new front office and coaching staff. Byrd, Tartt, and Jerome would be the three front-runners for depth at safety, with seventh round pick, cornerback/safety Adrian Colbert getting a look as well.