2016 NFL Draft: Complete Mock for 49ers in Each Round

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Nov 7, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Iowa State Cyclones running back Mike Warren (2) is tackled by Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Eric Striker (19) during the first quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 4 Compensatory: Eric Striker, OLB, Oklahoma

The 49ers first compensatory selection would be for the loss of Chris Culliver last season. It seems appropriate, then, that we start actually looking at defense with this pick.

I have Eric Striker listed as an outside linebacker, but that’s a bit of a misnomer. NFL.com lists him as a safety, and he has the coverage skills needed to be an inside linebacker as well in a 3-4 system. Striker is a man without an obvious position, but with obvious skills. He’s an explosive, undersized playmaker who recorded 23 sacks and 46.5 tackles for losses in his career, while also dropping into coverage on a regular basis. He was a mobile chess piece, in other words, who was moved around to exploit matchups.

Jerod Brown recently sang the praises of Striker, and I can’t disagree. He has the 49ers considering him in the fifth round; that’s essentially the same spot as a fourth-round compensatory selection. I picture him actually playing inside linebacker in the base set and shifting to outside linebacker in pass-rushing situations. His speed makes him a real mismatch for offensive linemen, even if his lack of size isn’t going to allow him to bullrush people.

The 49ers are looking for a pass-rusher and an inside linebacker this offseason. Striker isn’t an ideal fit in either role, but he can cover elements of both. I like that versatility, and perhaps new defensive coordinator Jim O’Neil could find creative ways to use him.

Other players considered:

Terrance Smith, OLB, Florida State
Issac Seumalo, G, Oregon State
Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor

Next: Round 5: More Help on the Defensive Line