Heading into the 2022 season, the safety position posed a significant concern for the San Francisco 49ers. However, through the acquisition of Tashaun Gipson and the emergence of Talanoa Hufanga, it swiftly transformed into a position of strength for the team.

Hufanga had a modest rookie season after being drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft. He appeared in 15 games and started in three. In the 49ers' divisional round win against the Packers, he recovered a blocked punt and returned it for a touchdown, which became a crucial play in the 49ers' upset victory. 

2022 is when Hufanga really burst onto the scene. He started all 17 regular season games and all three 49ers playoff games. He produced 97 tackles, four interceptions, nine deflected passes, and two forced fumbles. He earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors due to his spectacular season. 

Despite having areas of his game that require refinement, such as occasional over-aggressiveness, Hufanga's performance in the previous season solidified his rightful place among the NFL's elite safeties. 

In CBS' latest positional rankings, Hufanga checked in at number five. Here is what they had to say about him: 

Talanoa Hufanga has only played two seasons of NFL football, but he's already one of the best in the league, earning Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro accolades in 2022, his first year as a full-time starter. His standout ability to generate takeaways in coverage (four interceptions) while also being a threat as a pass-rusher (2.0 sacks and seven quarterback pressures) helped power the San Francisco 49ers to the top-ranked scoring defense in the league last season (16.3 points per game allowed).

If Hufanga can replicate his efforts as a starter going forward, he'll be threatening for the top spot on this list in short order. 

After an offseason where Hufanga was snubbed from many lists just like this, it is good to see him finally getting the respect he deserves. 

Featured Image via: © Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports