2016 NFL Draft: Assessing San Francisco 49ers’ Best Round 1 Options
By Peter Panacy
Defensive End DeForest Buckner, Oregon
The 49ers are in desperate need of pass-rushing help in 2016, and despite having good depth along the defensive line already, the team could stand an upgrade to solidify the defense and make good on their ability to get to opposing quarterbacks.
Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner registered 17 sacks and 33.5 tackles for a loss — 10.5 of those sacks coming last year — over four years with the Ducks and would be paired with former Oregon teammate Arik Armstead should the Niners go this route.
The 6’7″, 290-prospect is certainly a top-10 draftee and would be a wonderful addition to San Francisco’s anemic pass rush.
STRENGTHS: Looks the part with a tall, long frame and growth potential to add bulk. Massive wingspan and uses his length to unglue himself from blocks or create spacing at the point of attack, locking out, setting the edge and preventing angle blocks.
Quickly stacks and sheds, using pop in his hands to work off contact. Fluid lower body and athletic footwork to move laterally and break down in tight spaces. Plays low for a man his size with good bend, making it tough for blockers to attack his chest.
WEAKNESSES: Leverage can be an issue at times due to his height. Struggles to recoil and reset himself after his initial move stalls. Still learning how to set up his pass rush sequence and counter moves. Only average snap anticipation.
Needs to know his limitations as a pass rusher and not sacrifice the edge. Still learning how to use his hands and consistently convert speed to power – more of a reactor as a pass rusher. Inconsistent tackler on the move, losing balance in space and not timing his hits. Want to see more of a killer instinct on each snap.
Why He Fits:
As noted, the 49ers’ pass rush in 2015 was anemic outside of linebacker Aaron Lynch. Despite Armstead’s rise in the latter half of the season, the Niners still need someone to regularly get to the quarterback and/or take pressure off Lynch’s abilities.
Plus, one has to think Buckner would enjoy playing alongside Armstead under the tutelage of former head coach Chip Kelly and the Niners’ 3-4 scheme.
Why He Doesn’t:
San Francisco’s D-line depth looks pretty good heading into 2016. Even though defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey (knee) likely won’t be available at the start of the season, the Niners already have fellow tackle Quinton Dial in a starting role. And re-signing nose tackle Ian Williams would potentially create a logjam along the line.
Next: CB Vernon Hargreaves III