The 49ers’ cornerback depth took a hit Sunday when Richard Sherman injured his hamstring late in San Francisco’s 48-46 win in New Orleans. Head coach Kyle Shanahan on Monday announced Sherman would be out “a couple weeks.”
With cornerback help already scant on the 49ers’ roster, they’re set to re-sign former fourth-round pick Dontae Johnson according to NFL insider Adam Caplan.
I'm told the #49ers are re-signing CB Dontae Johnson (4th round/2014 by SF), who was with the team in training camp and one other time this season.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) December 11, 2019
Johnson struggled in 16 start for the 49ers in 2017, and played in one game for Buffalo last season before re-signing with the 49ers during camp. He had a brief stint with the club in early October that lasted into mid-November. Johnson played in five games during that stretch before his release.
The 2014 draft pick played in 63 games with 22 across four seasons with the 49ers to start his career. He had two interceptions and returned both for touchdowns.
He’ll slot in at the back end of the 49ers’ depth chart behind Ahkello Witherspoon and Emmanuel Moseley. They’re the only other healthy outside corners on the roster, although Tarvarius Moore and Jimmie Ward have also spent time at that spot. K’Waun Williams is also capable of playing outside, but he’s in concussion protocol and his status for Sunday is uncertain.
Veteran Jason Verrett has been on Injured Reserve since Week 4, and is eligible to return if the 49ers want to open his practice window.