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San Francisco 49ers: Grading 2015 Rookie Class after Season

By Peter Panacy

August 23, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead (69) rushes Dallas Cowboys tackle John Wetzel (61) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
August 23, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead (69) rushes Dallas Cowboys tackle John Wetzel (61) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Eli Harold (58) picks up a fumble in front of St. Louis Rams wide receiver Tavon Austin (11) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Eli Harold (58) picks up a fumble in front of St. Louis Rams wide receiver Tavon Austin (11) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

LB Eli Harold

2015 Statistics

The 49ers needed pass-rushing help this season after releasing linebacker Aldon Smith, and linebacker Eli Harold was supposed to be a part of that solution after being selected in Round 3.

Harold was known for his edge-rushing abilities at Virginia but didn’t see much action until the second half of the season. An injury suffered by linebacker Aaron Lynch, along with the bust status of fellow OLB Corey Lemonier, opened up the door for Harold to make some headway.

The rookie managed just eight tackles and five assists over 16 games — including one start — but did end up having four quarterback hits and 10 hurries, according to Pro Football Focus.

While finishing with a negative overall grade (minus-0.9), Harold was actually solid against the run with a plus-2.5 mark.

Harold entered the season at 235 pounds but has looked to add some weight in order to gain more power in his pass-rushing abilities.

The first half of the season may have been so-so at best, but Harold finished on a strong note.

Grade: C

Next: Jaquiski Tartt