The San Francisco 49ers are making some strategic moves to retain a seasoned defensive back.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 49ers plan to sign safety Tracy Walker to their practice squad with the goal of promoting him for their Week 1 game against the New York Jets.
Walker, 29, joined San Francisco in August after spending the first six years of his career with the Detroit Lions. A third-round draft pick in 2018, Walker has played in 79 games, starting in 43 of them. In the 2022 season, he tallied 59 tackles, one sack, two passes defensed, and a forced fumble. He participated in 50 percent of the team’s defensive snaps and contributed to 33 percent of special teams plays
While the 49ers are signing Tracy Walker to their practice squad with the intention of elevating him for Week 1, it’s not confirmed whether he will start. Typically, players promoted from the practice squad are used as depth options or for specific situational roles. Walker is an experienced player with 79 games and 43 starts under his belt, so he could certainly contribute if needed.
However, his exact role will likely depend on the status of the 49ers’ current starters and how Walker performs in practice leading up to the game.
Tracy Walker’s addition to the 49ers’ roster likely provides depth in the secondary rather than him immediately replacing a starting player. His elevation for Week 1 suggests he may fill in for an injured or unavailable player or bolster the defense in certain situations, particularly on special teams.
Currently, the 49ers’ starting safeties are Tashaun Gipson and Talanoa Hufanga, both of whom were key contributors last season. If Walker were to replace someone, it would most likely be for a backup safety position or a rotational role, possibly filling in for a player dealing with injury or needing rest. It’s not clear if any 49ers’ defensive backs are currently injured, but Walker could provide valuable depth and experience.
In addition to Tracy Walker, the San Francisco 49ers have made several roster moves as they prepare for the 2024 season. While specific recent signings vary by timing, notable recent additions to their roster include:
1. **Nick Zakelj (OL)** – Zakelj was brought back to the 49ers’ practice squad after being waived during final roster cuts. He adds depth to the offensive line.
2. **Marlon Davidson (DL)** – The 49ers signed Davidson to their practice squad. The former second-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons provides defensive line depth and versatility.
3. **Jeremy McNichols (RB)** – The team also signed McNichols to the practice squad, adding depth to the running back room behind Christian McCaffrey, Elijah Mitchell, and others.
4. **Chris Conley (WR)** – Conley, a veteran wide receiver, was signed to the practice squad. He adds experience to the receiving corps and could be elevated for games depending on need.
These players, along with Walker, are part of the 49ers’ strategy to strengthen their depth and have options for promoting players to the active roster when necessary.