San Francisco 49ers: Latest News & Rumors Before 2016 NFL Free Agency
By Peter Panacy
ESPN’s Todd McShay Mocks Cal Quarterback Jared Goff to 49ers
OK, so mock drafts aren’t exactly signs of news and/or rumors. But expert opinions do cast some light on what the Niners’ plans may be in free agency this offseason.
Given what has been discussed about quarterbacks Colin Kaepernick and Robert Griffin III, why not throw some additional fuel onto the fire?
ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay recently released his post-NFL Scouting Combine mock draft and tabbed Cal quarterback Jared Goff to the 49ers, who own the seventh overall pick.
McShay stated:
"There’s a lot still to be hashed out between the 49ers and Colin Kaepernick. But if Chip Kelly is looking to draft his QB of the future and Goff falls to No. 7, the 49ers might just pull the trigger. Goff is a naturally accurate thrower who displays above-average anticipation. His smooth release would fit perfectly within Kelly’s scheme, which counts on the quarterback getting the ball out on time and on target."
Should the 49ers go this route and select Goff, it would be a clear sign the franchise is willing to move on from Kaepernick if they haven’t done so already by the time the draft rolls around. Even if Kaepernick is on the roster to start the 2016 season, he likely won’t be doing more than competing for a new home the following year while Goff is groomed to take over the starting job.
A clearer picture will be painted by what the 49ers do with the Kaepernick situation between now and April 1. If he’s released or traded, the chances of San Francisco taking a quarterback early in the draft increases significantly.
Next: 49ers Expected to Tender RFA Michael Wilhoite