Darcel

McBath

McBath, 26, has been a bust as the 48th overall pick in the 2009 draft. Though more quietly than Knowshon Moreno, he was one of Josh McDaniels’ bigger blunders in Denver. McBath has started one game through three NFL seasons.

The Jags announced McBath as a cornerback, even though he mostly played safety at Texas Tech and with the Broncos. He’ll give Jacksonville a three-game audition to perhaps be a member of the 53-man roster in 2012.

The Jags’ secondary has been decimated by injury, meaning practice squad types like Ashton Youboty and Akwasi Owusu-Ansah have been pressed into significant roles. The Jaguars travel to Tennessee in Week 16.

Other than quality special teams work, McBath has put nothing on tape since the Broncos took him in the second round of the 2009 draft. The Niners appear to be taking a flier while they wait for FS Dashon Goldson to sign his franchise tender.

McBath wasn’t tendered as a restricted free agent, so he’s likely coming back at the veteran’s minimum. The former second-round pick out of Texas Tech doesn’t contribute much on defense, but he’s a key special teamer. McBath, 27, recorded seven tackles last season.

Goldson already has one foot out the door. Spillman is a thumper that has been used in goal-line situations, while McBath is a restricted free agent that is better in coverage. The Niners could also address the position in the draft with one of their 15 picks.

McBath, a key special teams player, was re-signed to a one-year contract in March, but he injured his foot while covering a punt against the Chiefs last week. The 27-year-old played just six snaps on defense this preseason.

McBath was sent to injured reserve last week, but can now re-sign with the 49ers when he’s healthy. McBath was one of the 49ers’ top special teamers last season.

Just being able to practice against Mike Leach’s offense on a daily basis gives McBath a big edge. McBath isn’t a burner, but had six picks as a senior and offers special teams experience. He’ll likely be Denver’s third safety as a rookie, behind Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill.

McBath, a true cover safety with terrific ball skills (six INTs in 2008), will play special teams in his first season, but Denver has the oldest starting safety duo in the league. The former Texas Tech Red Raider will likely take over for one of Renaldo Hill, 31 this season, and Brian Dawkins, 36, by 2011.