2016 NFL Draft: 7-Round Mock for 49ers After Start of Free Agency
By Rob Lowder
Round 4 – Pick 105
The Pick: Sheldon Day, DT, Notre Dame
Other Options: Roberto Aguayo, K, Florida State / Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama
Although the 49ers have been relatively inactive during free agency, they were able to re-sign starting nose tackle Ian Williams and defensive tackle Quinton Dial. Despite smartly retaining this talent, the 49ers defensive line needs more effective depth before entering into the fray of playing defense under a Chip Kelly system.
Sheldon Day, defensive tackle from Notre Dame would be an impact player that would see action right away within a rotational defensive line. With an outstanding motor, Day makes up for his lack of size with his ability to consistently disrupt both the run and pass.
While some 49ers fans may scoff at the idea of taking another kicker in the draft, there is a chance that Roberto Aguayo, kicker from Florida State, has already been taken by this point. He is that good. In a 49ers offense that seems to rely on field goals, having an elite kicker could never hurt.
Baalke could also choose to throw another cornerback into the competitive fire that the 49ers are looking to foster come training camp. Cornerback Cyrus Jones from Alabama would join Brock, Ward, Johnson, Acker and Cromartie as CBs who have seen significant playing time at the position.
Jones has shown a steady improvement at the position as he learns to overcome his size, and would also contribute on special teams as a possible gunner and return man.
Round 4 – Pick 133 (Compensatory)
The Pick: Roberto Aguayo, K, Clemson
Other Options: Tyler Ervin, RB, SJSU / Eric Murray, CB, Minnesota
If Roberto Aguayo is still on the board at the 49ers first compensatory selection, the 49ers would be foolish not to make the pick. What is being touted as one of the greatest kicker prospects within the last decade, the value would be too great to pass up.
If Aguayo is unavailable or Baalke turns his attention elsewhere, Tyler Ervin, running back from San Jose State will be on the radar. Chip Kelly was said to be watching Ervin closely at the SJSU Pro Day.
Adding a promising running back to compliment Carlos Hyde, whom has shown a tendency for injury, should be seen as a priority. With all due respect to the admirable efforts of Shaun Draugn and DuJuan Harris, the 49ers’ focus should be aimed towards finding a backup RB through the draft, rather than castaway free agents.
If the position has yet to be addressed, CB Eric Murray from Minnesota would be a worthwhile addition for the same reasons as Cyrus Jones, above. Baalke has excelled at finding late-round CB talent. Expect him to do the same this year.
Next: Round 5