San Francisco 49ers: 10 Pros Who Could Lose Jobs to 2016 NFL Draft Prospects

Linebacker Michael Wilhoite

2015 revealed former-backup linebacker Michael Wilhoite probably isn’t suited to be an every-down linebacker at the NFL level.

While Wilhoite ranked No. 2 on the team in tackles last year (62), he also ranked as San Francisco’s worst defender with a minus-16.5 overall grade, according to Pro Football Focus.

Wilhoite’s shortcomings might have opened up the door for fellow inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman to lead not only the team in tackles (116) but the entire NFL as well. But to make best use of Bowman’s abilities, the 49ers would like to add some talent in Wilhoite’s stead.

Alabama’s Reggie Ragland, Missouri’s Kentrell Brothers and Oklahoma’s Dominique Alexander are considered the best ILB prospects in this year’s draft, per CBS Sports. And the 49ers may be enticed to take a later-round flier on prospects like Arizona’s Scooby Wright III or Stanford’s Blake Martinez.

There are also a number of hybrid linebackers, who could occupy the interior spot.

Wilhoite probably won’t be released outright if the 49ers wind up going this route via the draft. He’s already proven himself capable of being, at least, a quality backup. Yet one shouldn’t expect him to be starting unless the next prospect isn’t worthwhile enough to assume a starting role.

Another not-so-out-of-the-box thought is for fellow linebacker Gerald Hodges to assume the role, if he proves himself in camp.

Next: Bruce Ellington