2016 NFL Draft: 10 Players the San Francisco 49ers Should Target
By Peter Panacy
Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr., Oregon
It’s entirely possible the 49ers miss out on a quarterback early in the draft or elect to pass on one altogether and ride the hopeful hands of either Colin Kaepernick or Blaine Gabbert in 2016.
Still, the Niners would be wise to at least take a shot at a quarterback in this year’s draft class to give a potential long-term option.
Oregon quarterback Vernon Adams has seen his stock rise considerably, especially after a strong performance in the East West Shrine game. While undersized for the position — 5’11” and 195 pounds — there isn’t any doubt to Adams’ ability to extend plays and use his creativity to make things happen.
In many ways, Adams is similar to Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson. And like Wilson, perhaps even moreso, Adams will be found much deeper in the draft.
STRENGTHS: Excellent mobility and ability to create big-plays while on the move. Shows guts in the face of oncoming defenders. Terrific on short-to-intermediate throws, getting the ball out quick with added juice to fire strikes.
Showed off his dual-threat capabilities at Shrine Game, eluding defenders with balance and agility and quieting critics with polished throws from the pocket.
WEAKNESSES: Undersized with a small frame and looks tiny in the pocket compared to other prospects. Many of his passing yards came on simple screens and quick flair routes. Lacks consistent accuracy and velocity. Inconsistent on the deep pass.
— Rob Rang and Dane Brugler, CBS Sports (2/19/16)
Why He Fits:
Adams’ ties to the University of Oregon have to be on the radar of head coach Chip Kelly. While Adams never played under the 49ers head coach, one can bet Kelly has watched the tape.
The offensive scheme Kelly will employ figures to be something Adams could command.
“I watched (Kelly’s offense) in Philly last year,” Adams told reporters at the combine Wednesday, per the Oregonian. “Pretty much 80-90 percent of the plays I would see I could call out that we run at Oregon, so I think I could really come in and run that offense, too.”
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Unlike the possible selection of Cal quarterback Jared Goff, taking a mid- to late-round flier on Adams wouldn’t openly be a change of direction under center. It would merely add to San Francisco’s options.
And the 49ers need as many as they can get right now.
Next: Prospects the 49ers Should Watch at the 2016 Scouting Combine
All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com and Sports-Reference.com unless otherwise indicated. Supplementary draft information courtesy of CBS Sports.