2016 NFL Draft: 7-Round Mock for 49ers After Start of Free Agency
By Rob Lowder
Round 2 – Pick 37
The Pick: Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Other Options: Shilique Calhoon, OLB, Michigan State / Joshua Garnett, OG, Stanford
Outside of Torrey Smith, the 49ers wide receiving corps is devoid of any type of game-changing talent, to include a red-zone threat worthy of defensive consideration.
Wide receiver Josh Docston from TCU is that consideration.
At 6’2”, 200 pounds, Docston’s ability to leap up and contort his body to make contested catches is uncanny. Whether in the end zone or on third down, Docston would provide the 49ers with a playmaking element they have not had in years.
But, there is a catch. Doctson is seen as a fringe-day one talent. He may be unavailable for the 49ers in the second round and would require a trade if the 49ers deem him worthy, but with (arguably) three receivers ahead of him on many team’s draft board, it is certainly a possibility. Doctsons lack of polish, slight frame and trouble disengaging from press coverage may also have team’s questioning whether he is first round talent.
Should the 49ers be forced to watch Doctson’s selection by another team, there are very promising alternatives. The Denver Broncos, on their quest to a Super Bowl 50 victory, proved that you can never have too many pass rushers.
Outside linebacker Shilique Calhoon from Michigan State would present a temptation that Baalke may find more enticing than Doctson. Calhoon has the size, production and measurable that the 49ers GM has been known to covet.
If neither Doctson nor Calhoon materialize for the 49ers, Joshua Garnett from Stanford would prove a valuable fix in filling the leaks presenting by the offensive line. He possesses the skillset that a team, even in Kelly’s system, needs to run the ball in order to be effective.
If the 49ers select a QB in the first round, investments in the offensive line must be made, especially after losing Alex Boone to free agency.
Next: Round 3