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2016 NFL Draft: 6 Simple Steps for a Successful 49ers Class

By Bryan Knowles

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 14, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs after making a catch against the Baylor Bears during the first half at McLane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs after making a catch against the Baylor Bears during the first half at McLane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Add Talent to Wide Receiver

It’s a shame that the 49ers probably will have to address quarterback with their second-round pick; there are plenty of wide receivers I’d love to see in Chip Kelly’s offense that would be prime picks in the second round at number 37. The 49ers needs are what they are, however, so it seems unlikely the 49ers will be in a position to add a prime talent to the receiving corps.

They should still, however, strive to come away with one of the top 20 receivers in the class. ESPN’s rankings imply that 40 receivers or so are draftable, so I’m essentially saying the 49ers need to get a receiver before half of them are gone. This probably means the 49ers can’t afford to wait longer than their fifth-round pick before adding another body to the corps.

Chip Kelly likes his receivers big and tall, so maybe the 49ers target Stanford’s Devon Cajuste (6’4”) at the top of the fifth round. Maybe they take California’s Kenny Lawler (6’2”) with their fourth-round compensatory pick. Maybe they do bite the bullet and use a second-round pick on Ohio State’s Michael Thomas (6’3”). One way or another, they could really use another big body at receiver to help implement Kelly’s offensive style.

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