Raheem Morris confident in 49ers’ depth ahead of Cowboys matchup

San Francisco defensive coordinator Raheem Morris knows the 49ers will have their hands full against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The challenge starts with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, a receiver duo Morris called “a very, very difficult crew.”

Lamb is coming off a career day, and Morris described him as a volume target who gets the ball often. He compared Lamb’s role to the heavy usage of Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba and the Rams’ Puka Nacua.

Then there’s Pickens, whom Morris called a “freak” because of his athletic ability and versatility. He said Pickens can hurt a defense vertically or after the catch, and can line up on the same side as Lamb.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 13: Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris of the San Francisco 49ers looks on from the sidelines against the Tennessee Titans in the first half at Levi’s Stadium on August 13, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

49ers vs. Cowboys Preview

That matchup could become more complicated if cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir or Renardo Green can’t play. Both are working back from injuries. Morris said the 49ers will take their status “all the way to game day,” but expressed confidence in the depth behind them.

“When you can prepare for it during the week, you gain more confidence as you go,” Morris said, adding that the defense has practiced with the players who could be called on.

He acknowledged the Cowboys’ receivers have piled up more than 500 yards, possibly nearing 700, along with a high number of receptions and targets. Against a group like that, Morris said, “You’re going to give up some yards.”

The goal, he said, is to keep competing and find ways to win.

Morris also addressed the pass rush after San Francisco failed to record a sack in its last two games. He said Dallas’ quick passing game makes pressure difficult, but isn’t an excuse. He pointed to the defense’s work against screens, including getting to the ball and knocking passes down, and praised Keion White for a critical hit on a double move.

While Morris wants more production, he said the defense has played well in critical moments, when “their best is required.”

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JULY 27: Raheem Morris defensive coordinator of the San Francisco 49ers talks with the media following a training camp practice at SAP Performance Facility on July 27, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

The 49ers’ defensive line could be a key factor against Dallas. Morris praised the group’s rotation, saying fresh players have helped the defense perform in high-pressure situations. Mykel Williams played 20 snaps in his return, while several edge defenders averaged around 30.

Morris said snap counts depend on the game, personnel and pace.

He also highlighted Osa Odighizuwa’s disruptive performance last week, and said veteran DeForest Buckner picked up the system quickly. Nick Bosa, Morris added, can make an impact even without extensive practice.

Asked about linebacker Fred Warner’s leadership, Morris said Warner helps free up the other 10 defenders by communicating and anticipating the calls. “He can probably say what I’m going to say before I even say it,” Morris said.

More 49ers content from Sactown Sports

• Did the 49ers do enough at the trade deadline?
• What Keenan Allen brings to the 49ers’ WR room
• Could the 49ers look to unite the Bosa brothers?
• Should the 49ers rest Mike Evans for the playoffs?

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers 2026 Schedule

• Sunday, November 15th – @ Dallas Cowboys – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, November 22nd – vs. Minnesota Vikings (Mexico City) – 5:20 pm PT
• Sunday, November 29th – vs. Seattle Seahawks – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, December 6th – @ New York Giants – 10:00 am PT
• Sunday, December 13th – vs. Los Angeles Rams – 1:25 pm PT

Thank you for reading SactownSports.com. Follow us on Twitter and Google News, and subscribe to our Sactown Sports YouTube page.

Related

Did the 49ers do enough at the trade deadline?What Keenan Allen brings to the 49ers’ WR roomCould the 49ers look to unite the Bosa brothers?Should the 49ers rest Mike Evans for the playoffs?49ers trade for Keenan Allen to bolster injured WR room49ers Injury Updates: Samuel, Evans & more