Report: 49ers expected to sign former Bears nickel CB Buster Skrine

The 49ers have been banged up at a few positions but none more important than cornerback. With slot corner K’Waun Williams expected to miss a few weeks, at least, the team is signing veteran slot cornerback Buster Skrine to take his place.

Skrine signed a three-year, $16.6 million contract with the Chicago Bears in free agency of 2019 but was released this past free agency.

The 32-year-old cornerback has started 56 games in his career between the Browns, Bears, and the New York Jets. Skrine appeared in 12 games with Chicago during the 2020 seasons, where he allowed a completion percentage of 73.6% on 8.4 yards per target and surrendered four touchdowns.

Deommodore Lenoir and Dontae Johnson rotated in the slot once Williams went down against the Packers. I think Lenoir is better suited outside, while Johnson should play inside if he does see the field. Skrine was once known as a speedy, athletic cornerback who could help in man coverage. He is available nearly a month into the season for a reason, though.

With Seattle and Arizona as the team’s next two games, the 49ers will need all hands on deck at the cornerback position. The last thing you want to do is have a free agent you signed off the street playing against D.K. Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, DeAndre Hopkins, A.J. Green, and Rondale Moore.