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2016 NFL Draft: 5 Late-Round Prospects the 49ers Should Target

By Bryan Knowles

Aaron Lynch is a recent example of a great late-round draft pick. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Lynch is a recent example of a great late-round draft pick. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 20, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Willie Henry (69) celebrates his touchdown after making an interception in the second quarter against the Utah Utes at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Willie Henry (69) celebrates his touchdown after making an interception in the second quarter against the Utah Utes at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Willie Henry, DT, Michigan

Another possible addition to the defensive line would be Willie Henry, who has improved every season at Michigan.

Unlike Ridgeway, Henry might be more of a defensive end in the 49ers’ system, but he’s got room on his frame to fill out more if the 49ers wanted to keep him inside, and he’s got the work ethic to stay in the weight room and add on functional muscle to do so. No one can criticize his hustle or his competitive spirit, as he always plays through the whistle with intensity and a surprising burst for a big man. He has nice long arms, which Trent Baalke is always looking for, and he gets low pad level to drive opponents forward.

He’s still developing—he has a tendency to mistime the snap count and get encroachment penalties, and he can get directed away from rushing lanes at times. However, considering that he’s gotten measurably better every season through his college career, I believe he can continue improving in the NFL and turn into a solid rotational player, at least.

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Bryan Knowles is a staff writer here at Niner Noise.  Follow him @BryKno on Twitter.