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

By Peter Panacy

Photo courtesy of 49ers.com.
Photo courtesy of 49ers.com. /
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Nov 22, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Ryan Buchanan (9) looks to pass as offensive lineman Fahn Cooper (74) blocks and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive end JaMichael Winston (6) pursues during first half action at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Ryan Buchanan (9) looks to pass as offensive lineman Fahn Cooper (74) blocks and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive end JaMichael Winston (6) pursues during first half action at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports /

Offensive Tackle Fahn Cooper, Mississippi

Collegiate Statistics

San Francisco’s selection of former Georgia tackle John Theus in Round 5 might have been a little strange, as Theus will have a tough time earning a starting role anytime soon, but the subsequent pick of Mississippi’s Fahn Cooper to supplement the same position made a lot more sense.

At 6’5″ and 308 pounds, Cooper is in position to battle it out with Theus and returning veteran offensive linemen Trent Brown and Erik Pears for the starting right tackle position.

Brown may be the favorite to win here after securing the starting gig late in 2015, but Cooper is also a dark-horse candidate.

Backing up Ole Miss teammate Laremy Tunsil also falls to Cooper’s credit.

Cooper is primarily known for his run-blocking abilities, which may be a primary reason why the 49ers selected him. This was a problematic area for San Francisco’s O-line a year ago, which gives Cooper a better shot to earn a starting job.

He may not be the favorite here, but Cooper is certainly a player to watch in camp.

Next: OG Joshua Garnett