It feels like the 49ers getting the opportunity to draft Nick Bosa is becoming more of a probable outcome than a possible outcome. Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller became the latest draft analyst to send quarterback Kyler Murray to Arizona in his three-round mock.
The 49ers take advantage and snag the Ohio State edge rusher, but the more intriguing thing in Miller’s mock is their moves after the first round. They prioritize receiver over safety, and take a pass catcher that doesn’t necessarily fit the mold we’ve seen 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan covet in receivers. They also scoop up a potential starting free safety in the third round.
Round 1, Pick 2 | Nick Bosa, EDGE, Ohio State
This is becoming the consensus selection for the 49ers, and it’s hard to argue they go any other direction if the Cardinals do select Murray first overall. Head coach Kyle Shanahan and CEO Jed York have made it clear San Francisco is willing to part with this pick for the right price. That price likely rises with the increasing possibility that the best edge rusher in the draft falls to them.
Round 2, Pick 36 | Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa State
It’s conceivable the 49ers pick a safety with their second pick. Butler dropping to them in the second round could dramatically alter their plans. There aren’t many receivers built like Butler. He’s 6-5, 227 pounds and in the 95th percentile or above in wingspan, arm length and hand size. He added a 4.47 40-yard dash at the combine to all of his physical tools and good production his last two years for the Cyclones. There are questions about Butler’s ability to run a complete route tree, but his physical traits might make him too enticing to skip with the 36th overall pick.
Wide receivers Kelvin Harmon from North Carolina State and Deebo Samuel from South Carolina are both on the board when the 49ers pick in Miller’s mock. It wouldn’t be a surprise if they value either of those guys over Butler despite Butler’s superior combination of size and athleticism.
Round 3, Pick 67 | Darnell Savage, S, Maryland
Savage would be a very good addition to the 49ers’ group of safeties. He’s just 5-11, 198 pounds, but his 4.36 40-yard dash and seven interceptions the last two seasons indicate he has the desired athleticism and coverage skills to be a starting free safety in the 49ers’ defense. Overall he posted eight picks, 13 pass breakups and 139 tackles in four years for the Terrapins. He’s not a heavy hitter, but he’s instinctive and willing to fly downhill against the run. Getting a safety of Savage’s caliber in the third round could net San Francisco a starter.
