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2016 NFL Draft: 5 Risky Picks the 49ers Should Avoid

By Jerod Brown

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell takes a photo with draft prospects in attendance before the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell takes a photo with draft prospects in attendance before the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) runs with the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) runs with the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Kyler Fackrell-Outside Linebacker-Utah State

The 49ers need help rushing the passer. That much is clear. Outside linebacker Ahmad Brooks is likely done with the team and, aside from outside linebacker Aaron Lynch, the other options are less-than-proven. The 49ers need to determine who can line up as a complete outside linebacker and recreate some of the success that the team saw from former 49ers Justin Smith and Aldon Smith.

Whether they believe that player is on the roster or not, the 49ers will likely target free agent outside linebackers as well as players in the draft.

An intriguing option could be Utah State’s Kyler Fackrell. He’s generating major buzz in the lead-up to the draft and will continue to after being invited to this month’s scouting combine.

Let’s begin with the upside aspect to Fackrell. He’s drawing some major comparisons for a relatively unknown player.

After watching Denver Bronco Von Miller dominate in the Super Bowl, it’s hard not to get excited about any player mentioned in the same sentence.

Realistically, that’s where the similarities end. Miller came out of college widely-considered as one of the top players in his draft class. Fackrell, for all of his impressive plays, is likely to be available in the third or fourth round. While Miller’s body allowed for a smooth transition into the Broncos’ defense, Fackrell will have a harder time finding a home in the NFL.

Certainly there is a need for elite pass-rushers on all teams but starting players will need to do more. Fackrell simply needs time to develop into a complete player. The 49ers should avoid being the team that waits on Fackrell.

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