2016 NFL Draft: 10 Players the San Francisco 49ers Should Target
By Peter Panacy
Outside Linebacker Eric Striker, Oklahoma
Oklahoma outside linebacker and edge rusher Eric Striker would be an interesting addition should the 49ers continue to reinforce their pass rush via the NFL draft.
On one hand, it’s impossible to overlook Striker’s numbers over the last three seasons at Oklahoma — 22.5 sacks, 45 tackles for a loss and 191 total takedowns. Yet Striker’s 5’11” and 228-pound frame are enough for concern, which suggests he won’t be anything more than a fourth-round pick.
Can Striker be more than just an edge rusher, and will he be able to compete against NFL-caliber blockers? Size limitations may not hinder him as much at the collegiate level, but Striker won’t enjoy as much success at the pros unless he goes through some adjustments.
Still, the Niners should target him.
STRENGTHS: A natural playmaker boasting terrific awareness, agility and closing speed to prove a consistent threat off the edge. Anticipates the snap count well, exploding past offensive tackles with his initial burst. Uses his short stature as an advantage as a pass rusher, dipping under the reach of would-be blockers and showing good flexibility to turn the corner.
Striker has above average pursuit speed with the initial quickness to beat blockers to the corner, forcing holding penalties as a pass rusher. Showed encouraging awareness and overall fluidity in coverage during linebacker drills at the Senior Bowl. He has also done a better job staying patient, making the correct reads and controlling himself on the move to finish tackles. Plays with the maniacal style conducive to special teams.
WEAKNESSES: Comes with obvious size limitations. Possesses a short, compact frame, including just 31″ arms. While he possesses terrific snap anticipation and agility to elude would-be blockers, Striker is too easily when opponents are able to latch on. Frankly, once blockers get their hands on him, he’s usually done.
— Rob Rang, CBS Sports (2/13/16)
Why He Fits:
Remember, the 49ers have a lot of picks between Rounds 3 and 5, so this is a time when general manager Trent Baalke can look to take some deep shots at prospects with a high reward despite some risk.
The tackling element could be another bonus to Striker’s game. While coverage wasn’t necessarily his forte at Oklahoma, San Francisco would still be able to feature him in pass-rushing situations as well as against the run.
And he’d be an upgrade over current backup linebacker Corey Lemonier.
Consider this move to be a possible gem with the worst-case scenario of Striker merely supplying depth at a position of need for the 49ers this offseason.
Next: QB Vernon Adams