Overlooked defensive players that could make 49ers 53-man roster

The 49ers have five defensive players on the 90-man roster who’re flying under the radar and could make the team.

S Jared Mayden

Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports

While Mayden wasn’t particularly stellar in Alabama’s defense, he was tasked with a variety of roles that point to him being an asset on an NFL roster. He’s not likely to carve out a starting safety spot either this year or in the future, but his vast experience makes him an intriguing option that can work out at multiple spots while the team figures out the place that suits his skill set best. Special teams work is probably going to be Mayden’s primary job for the foreseeable future. Contributions on special tams and potential as a project defensive back could be enough to land the undrafted rookie a roster spot.