San Francisco 49ers: 5 Rookies Who Could Start Right Away in 2016

The San Francisco 49ers’ efforts to reinforce and upgrade their roster will continue following the team’s actions in the 2016 NFL Draft. With so many positions up for grabs, Niner Noise takes a look at five rookies who could start right away this season.

There is a lot on the line for the San Francisco 49ers’ 2016 class of rookies — all of whom are vying for notable roles, starting jobs and roster spots in the weeks and months leading up to Week 1 of the regular season.

As things go, not every rookie will make the cut. Some will see their NFL dreams come to a close just as their respective pro careers are starting. But on the other end of the spectrum, there are rookies who might end up making an impact right away.

With offseason activities picking up for the 49ers, let’s focus on the latter group — players who might be in a position to start right away this season.

Not surprisingly, early round picks have the best chance to wind up starting. High investments such as these typically warrant a team wanting to get that particular rookie on the field as soon as possible to generate the biggest amount of return.

So yes, a player like former Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner will be on this list.

But there are others too. Many of these remaining players might not have as big a shot as, let’s say, a Round 1 draft pick. Yet, since the Niners’ roster needs substantial upgrades at a large number of positions, other prospects could wind up getting the starting job in 2016.

Let’s break down five of these players and see why each one may be poised to start this season.

Next: The 2016 Rookie Class