finished the 2008 season with 63 combined tackles (56 solo), nine passes defensed, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 15 games and 15 starts. 2009 The San Francisco 49ers' new head coach, Mike Singletary, officially named Clements the No. 1 cornerback to start the 2009 regular season, opposite Tarell Brown. He started in the San Francisco 49ers' season-opener at the Arizona Cardinals and five combined tackles, a pass deflection, and an interception in their 20–16 victory. The following week, Clements made six combined tackles and a season-high four pass deflections during a 23–10 win against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2. On September 27, 2009, Clements recorded four combined tackles and returned a blocked field goal for a touchdown in the 49ers' 27–24 loss at the Minnesota Vikings. Clements recovered the ball and returned it for a 59-yard touchdown after it kicker Ryan Longwell's attempt was blocked by Ray McDonald in the second quarter. He joined Kevin Ross as the only players in NFL history return a blocked field goal for a touchdown on two separate occasions. On November 1, 2009, Clements suffered a right shoulder injury in the first quarter of a Week 8 loss at the Indianapolis Colts and exited the game. He sustained the injury after he was tackled by Philip Wheeler and Jerraud Powers while returning a punt in the second quarter. Many media members called into question head coach Mike Singletary's decision to place Clements in the punt return role due to his substantial contract and importance in the secondary. Clements took over punt return duties from Arnaz Battle who had disappointing performances after replacing recently released Pro Bowl return specialist Allen Rossum. Former head coach Mike Nolan was asked upon Clements signing about the possibility of Clements returning punt and immediately rejected the idea stating, "Not even maybe." On November 3, 2009, it was reported that Clements sustained a broken right scapula to his right shoulder and was expected to miss the remainder of the season. Head coach Mike Singletary elected to not place Clements on injured reserve for the rest of the season in hopes of a possible late season or playoff return. He finished the 2009 season with 35 combined tackles (30 solo), seven passes defensed, and an interception in seven games and six starts. 2010 Head coach Mike Singletary retained Clements as the 49ers' No. 1 starting cornerback to start