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49ers to activate linebacker Dekoda Watson from IR, promote cornerback Emmanuel Moseley from practice squad

The 49ers are adding defensive depth.

The San Francisco 49ers have two open roster spots, and they will be filling them with a pair of roster moves in advance of Thursday Night Football. The team is activating veteran linebacker Dekoda Watson from the injured reserve list and promoting cornerback Emmanuel Moseley from the practice squad, according to Matt Maiocco.

The team is also expected to activate strong safety Marcel Harris from the NFI list, per Ian Rapoport. If they make that move as well, they would need to waive somebody from the current roster. The team has until 1 p.m. PT to make the decision.

Watson is likely to move into the starting lineup at the SAM linebacker spot. Malcolm Smith has been filling that role, but he will likely move to weak side linebacker in light of Reuben Foster’s hamstring injury. Elijah Lee could fill in as well, but the 49ers will likely keep him primarily as a special teams option.

The decision to promote Moseley means we should probably keep an eye out for Richard Sherman’s status this afternoon. The team will announce inactives 90 minutes before kickoff, and Sherman is listed as questionable with calf and heel issues.

Harris would provide depth at strong safety, where the team is dealing with a host of injuries. Jaquiski Tartt (shoulder) and Antone Exum (concussion) have both been ruled out for Week 9. Tyvis Powell is likely to get the start at strong safety, but if activated, Harris could see some time as well. At the very least, Harris would get work on special teams.