The 49ers’ depth in the defensive backfield will be tested in the team’s season opener on Monday night against the Los Angeles Rams.
Chris Davis, who won the job as the team’s nickel back, is not expected to be in uniform due to a hamstring injury. Davis' loss is significant because the 49ers expect to have five defensive backs on the field for approximately two-thirds of their defensive snaps.
Coach Chip Kelly indicated the 49ers could move right cornerback Jimmie Ward to the nickel position, which covers the slot receiver. Ward held that role in the 49ers’ defense in his first two NFL seasons.