2016 NFL Draft: Early Projections for 49ers 11 Picks

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Dec 5, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers defensive back Prince Charles Iworah (30) celebrates after a play during the second half of the Conference USA football championship game against Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers won 45-28. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports /

Prince Charles Iworah, CB, Western Kentucky

Speed. Lots of speed.

More than anything else, this was Baalke’s justification behind his final 2016 selection, Prince Charles Iworah, cornerback from Western Kentucky.

At Iworah’s Pro Day, he ran a 4.3 second 40-yard dash. That is the kind of speed that simply cannot be coached.

However, there is a reason Iworah was still available in the seventh round and likely would have been available as an undrafted free agenct. Lance Zierlien of NFL.com highlights his rookie projection:

"Iworah’s tape is a little inconsistent at this time and his inability to mirror and match targets with consistency is troubling as a man-cover cornerback. While I see the explosive athleticism, his actual cover skills need enough fine-tuning that he may have to spend a year stashed on a practice squad."

Zierlein is absolutely correct, and with a year or two among the professional environment on the 49ers practice squad, Iworah may have a fighting chance to crack the 49ers 53-man roster.

Projection: Practice Squad

This concludes the projections for the full 2016 49ers draft class.

There is impact.

There is competition.

There is depth.

All three are going to be absolutely essential in Baalke’s efforts to rebuild the 49ers roster into it’s former competitive self, and as of now, the outlook is positive.

If you feel that a rookie has been over or underestimated, sound off in the comments below.

Next: 49ers Draft Grades: Round 1

All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of CBSsports.com and ESPN.com unless otherwise indicated.