Niner Noise
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2016 NFL Draft: 7-Round Mock for 49ers After Start of Free Agency

By Rob Lowder

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October 3, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) passes the football against the Washington State Cougars during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
October 3, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) passes the football against the Washington State Cougars during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 1 – Pick 7

The Pick: Jared Goff, QB, Cal

Other Options: DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon / Carson Wentz, QB. North Dakota State

“With the seventh pick, the San Francisco 49ers select Jared Goff, quarterback, Cal.”

With the Colin Kaepernick saga progressing at the intrigue level of an early-afternoon soap opera, and even if he remains on the roster come draft day, the 49ers will be hard pressed to pass on adding the quarterback of their future in Jared Goff.

A California native (who grew up a 49ers fan,) Goff possesses elite talent. His ability to show poise and navigate the pocket while accurately placing the ball are unmatched in this draft.

While the idea of combing Chip Kelly’s offense with a truly dual-threat quarterback appeals to many, Kelly’s system values anticipation, decisiveness and accuracy over athleticism. None of these traits were ever Colin’s strong suit and Goff should be seen as an immediate upgrade.

Goff’s offensive experience at Cal will also serve to prepare him for the types of plays he will be looked upon to master in Chip’s spread offense.

Should the 49ers find themselves at pick seven without the option of Jared Goff, defensive end DeForest Buckner from Oregon would prove of equal value. At 6’8”, 300 pounds, Buckner would be a game-changing force for the 49ers once dominate defense, especially when paired with former teammate and first round pick, Arik Armstead. The two would form truly intimidating bookends for the defensive line.

Carson Wentz, the small school quarterback from North Dakota State, would also be an intriguing pick at seven if both Goff and Buckner have been selected. While not as “pro-ready” as Jared Goff, Wentz possess the size, strength, mobility and arm talent to develop into a truly special quarterback within the NFL.

Next: Round 2