With the NFL draft coming ever closer, we took a final look at some of the prospects we’ve watched and discussed the most to come up with a list of five players we think are most likely to be drafted by the 49ers.
This is based some on reports, but a lot of it is based on fit, need, and where how we think the 49ers will utilize their selections.
Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
No surprise here. The 49ers by all accounts badly want Bosa, and the Cardinals by all accounts are going to pass on taking him No. 1 overall. If the former Buckeye does slip out of the top slot, we expect the 49ers to sprint to the podium to select him.
Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
A relatively dry first round for the wide receiver market could allow a player like Samuel to fall. He has all the traits the 49ers like in a wide receiver with his versatility, ability to create separation with crisp route running, and he’s good after the catch. If Samuel makes his way to the 49ers in the second round, it’s hard to believe they pass on him.
Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia
Ridley is a perplexing prospect because his testing numbers and college production weren’t great, but his tape shows a fluid, strong receiver who makes a habit of tying defenders in knots with his route running. The athletic traits low productivity in the college ranks could allow Ridley to slide, giving the 49ers an opportunity to scoop up a second receiver.
Marquise Blair, S, Utah
It’s easy to find Blair on tape. He’s like a wrecking ball on a go-kart with a personal vendetta against anyone who lines up across from him. There’s a chance the 49ers fall in love with his hard-nosed style and bring him in to compete for a starting safety job. If the 49ers want more of a sure bet they’ll pick a safety higher, but Blair would be a great value late on Day 2 or early on Day 3.
Trey Pipkins, OT, Sioux Falls
The 49ers may only be able to snag Pipkins if they make a trade for a fifth-round pick. He has good size at 6-6, 309 pounds and the requisite athleticism to succeed in both the run and pass games in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Pipkins may still be a bit raw, but San Francisco can stash him for a year or two while grooming him to eventually replace Joe Staley.
