Round one of the 2022 NFL Draft is in the books, and Deebo Samuel is still a member of the San Francisco 49ers.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the New York Jets offered the 10th selection and a pick swap in a later round to the 49ers in return for Samuel, which the team turned down.
Now on to day two, where San Francisco has three selections: 61, 93, 105.
Here are a couple of ways the day could play out for the 49ers.
Trade up
San Francisco sends picks 61 and 105 to New Orleans in exchange for pick 49.
Round 2, pick 49: Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State
Brisker can play all over the field, a trait the 49ers covet in their safeties. This move would be to replace Jaquiski Tartt.
Round 3, pick 93: Luke Fortner, C, Kentucky
Fortner is a versatile offensive lineman who played all three interior offensive line positions for the Wildcats over the last three seasons.
During his time at Kentucky, Fortner played under current Rams offensive coordinator Liam Coen. His familiarity with the 49ers scheme should make for a smooth transition to the NFL.
Sit tight
If the 49ers choose to stay with their current selections, they could find a safety, cornerback, edge rusher, or center.
Round 2, pick 61: Nick Cross, S, Maryland
Cross brings big-time speed, running a 4.34 40. He has the range to play as a single high safety and the ability to slide down into the box and cover in the slot.
Drafting Cross is a move that could signal the end is near for Jimmie Ward in San Francisco.
Round 3, pick 93: Marcus Jones, Cornerback, Houston
Jones gives the 49ers a solid option in the slot while also having the ability to play outside.
Lacking ideal size, Jones plays much larger than he is, showing the ability to guard much larger receivers successfully. Last season, Jones racked up five interceptions and made big plays as a kick returner for the Cougars.
Round 3, pick 105: DeAngelo Malone, Western Kentucky
San Francisco likes to have speed off the edge opposite Nick Bosa, and that’s precisely what they get in Malone.
Malone racked up 27 sacks and 72 hurries in three seasons with the Hilltoppers.
Malone isn’t expected to be a three-down player early in his career; however, his speed will be a welcome addition on second and third down.
I keep thinking the 49ers may be able to deal Jimmy during this draft. Maybe a conditional 3rd and 4th. If Jimmy completes a certain % of snaps next year for his new team then the 3rd becomes a 2nd. Is that not a realistic scenario?
Keep an eye on Houston and Carolina.
Need a lineman today, 2 if Mack is retiring.
I like the trade up for Brisker scenario. Lynch was at Penn St’s Pro Day and I believe they had an official meeting with Brisker.
Nick Cross would be my pick at 61
Pro Comparison: Darnell Savage Jr.
Strengths:
Rangy, hard-hitting free safety type who flies in coverage and when he locks into a ball carrier. His hits are devastating. Lot of pop. Has the top-end speed to be an eraser as a deep middle free safety. Will fight against in-breaking routes and typically closes a passing window in a hurry. Runs the alley as well as any safety in this class. This is a thick, fast safety who will be an imposing presence on any defense.
Weaknesses:
Tackling is hit or miss. Not someone you want moving into slot to cover quick, smaller receivers because he’s mostly a linear player. Some inconsistencies/coverage limitations to his game are concerning.
Accolades:
Three-time honorable mention All-Big Ten (2019, 2020, 2021)
Fastest 40-yard dash time (4.34 seconds) among safeties at combine
Wondering…must Jimmy G be traded for pick or two? Is there an impactful player the 9ers could use on the Panthers or Texans?
Did you also wonder the injured shoulder away ?
Me? No. Just sharing thoughts.
I do wish I had a Ferrells ice cream sundae right about now
Jack
I like both Luke Fortner, C, Kentucky and Nick Cross, S, Maryland. I don’t see the 9ers trading up for S Jaquan Brisker, Penn State. “IF” the 9ers trade up, it will be for a WR like Christian Watson, N. Dakota St. or CB, Kyler Gordon Washington.
Wow, I am surprised they did not trade up for Brisker or C Cam Jurgens. I really have no clue what their strategy is.
They could sign FA JC Tretter after the draft
While Drake Jackson wasn’t a guy I felt would add a whole lot for 2022, I do like this player a lot! I think he’s probably a year away from being a terrific player, but that’s OK because the 49ers are clearly treating 2022 as a transitional season, and if that’s the case, this was a good pick, although I do wish they had moved up for Jurgens or Ingram, as I am very concerned about Trey’s protection. In fact, my worries for the Niners’ current OL is at DEFCON 2 right now, and that’s obviously a major concern by definition!
Tyrion Davis-Price looks like that home run hitter
damn Cross to Colts – fck
49ers drafted speed, specialty type and impact players – We are loaded with talented skill players