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2016 NFL Draft: 5 Under-The-Radar Prospects the 49ers Should Target

By Rob Lowder

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 21, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Temple Owls linebacker Tyler Matakevich (8) reacts after a turnover on downs against the Memphis Tigers at Lincoln Financial Field. The Temple Owls won 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Temple Owls linebacker Tyler Matakevich (8) reacts after a turnover on downs against the Memphis Tigers at Lincoln Financial Field. The Temple Owls won 31-12. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Tyler Matakevich, ILB, Temple

Draft Stock: Round 4 to 5

Tyler Matakevich, linebacker out of Temple University, had more tackles than any player in college football during his tenure.

Per Dan Brugler of CBS Sports, he is also just the seventh player in college football history to tally more than 100 tackles in all four years at the position.

Despite his lack of size and speed, Matakevich had a very distinct impact as both a playmaker and a leader both on and off the field, quarterbacking the Owl’s defense to very respectable heights.

Bearing strikingly similar characteristics to 49ers’ 2014 third-round selection, Chris Borland (minus retirement, hopefully,) Baalke would find that Matakevich also wins with outstanding instincts and a channeled aggression once he identifies the play.

Tyler may not be able to win a starting role within the 49ers defense, but he would undoubtedly provide quality depth with the chance that he, just like his college career, proves us wrong and finds himself alongside NoVarro Bowman on Sundays.

Next: James Bradberry