2016 NFL Draft: Early Projections for 49ers 11 Picks

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Oct 30, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs quarterback Jeff Driskel (6) throws the ball against the Rice Owls in the third quarter at Rice Stadium. The Bulldogs won 42-17. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Jeff Driskel, QB, Louisiana Tech

In the beginning of the sixth round, the 49ers finally invested in a quarterback

Despite his draft stock, Jeff Driskel has quite a bit more intrigue than one might expect.

After a turbulent experience at Florida, attributed largely in part to a Muschamp-led program that was struggling to stay competitive, Driskel transferred to Louisiana Tech in 2014.

While lesser competition may have contributed, Driskel looked like a new quarterback under a new offensive system, throwing for 4,033 passing yards, 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Jeff Driskel is 6'4", 240. Runs a 4.46 40-yard dash and makes throws like this. Consider me intrigued. #49ers https://t.co/p2Z4ZwXi59
— Rob Lowder (@Rob_Lowder) April 30, 2016

Rob Rang of CBS Sports expands on Driskel’s positive outlook:

"Many dismissed him as a legitimate NFL prospect after his struggles at Florida, but Driskel reinvented himself at Louisiana Tech this past season, rebuilding his confidence. The physical traits are there with his size, arm strength and athleticism. Driskel has tremendous leadership and might be the most intriguing of the day three passing prospects in this year’s draft class."

This may fall under the “bold predictions” section of Niner Noise, but with a year or two of Chip Kelly guidance and grooming, I believe Driskel has a legitimate chance to earn a shot at a starting role as the 49ers signal-caller.

Projection: Competitive Depth/Eventual Starter

Next: Kelvin Taylor