2016 NFL Draft: 10 Players the San Francisco 49ers Should Target
By Peter Panacy
Offensive Guard Joshua Garnett, Stanford
San Francisco’s offensive line woes won’t be solved merely by one or two picks, and the team could stand to take multiple shots at prospects to work their way into long-term option to beef up one of the Niners’ biggest weaknesses last year.
The interior O-line positions are of concern, especially with the possibility of left guard Alex Boone departing via free agency.
So targeting Stanford guard — and 2015 John Outland Trophy recipient — Joshua Garnett would be a solid move if he were to fall into the early stages of Round 3.
STRENGTHS: Physically, Garnett has the look of a Coke machine with limbs. His stout core and long arms make him an intimidating interior blocker whose girth can overwhelm defenders. He has enough quickness to pull and block at the second level. When Garnett does reach his intended target, however, it was often a win for the Cardinal as he has strong mitts to latch onto opponents and looks to pancake them.
WEAKNESSES: Too often Garnett is unable to reach linebackers in time at the second level. Despite playing with good knee bend, Garnett isn’t the dominator in the run game that his size and physicality would indicate, as he shows just average initial quickness. This limitation leaves him vulnerable in pass protection, as well, as too often Garnett relied on his long reach and stout anchor to slow defenders, struggling to match the lateral agility of quicker interior rushers.
— Dane Brugler & Rob Rang, CBS Sports (2/5/16)
Why He Fits:
Stanford’s offense is something head coach Chip Kelly should know well enough from his time in the Pac-12. And Garnett’s abilities and growth suggest to him being a candidate for a starting role his rookie season.
With fellow linemen like Marcus Martin and Brandon Thomas not working out, Garnett could instantly compete with likely starters such as Andrew Tiller.
Garnett also showed his prowess in run-blocking schemes, which helped Heisman Trophy candidate Christian McCaffrey establish himself as one of the best players in the NCAA last season — a good mark given the Niners’ woes blocking for the ground game last season.
Next: ILB Scooby Wright III