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San Francisco 49ers: 5 UDFAs Who Might Make the Roster in 2016

By Rob Lowder

September 12, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal wide receiver Devon Cajuste (89) runs against Central Florida Knights defensive back Shaquill Griffin (10) during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
September 12, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal wide receiver Devon Cajuste (89) runs against Central Florida Knights defensive back Shaquill Griffin (10) during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 5, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers linebacker Wynton McManis (16) and defensive lineman Ricky Hunter (91) celebrate during the game against the Missouri State Bears at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Memphis Tigers beat Missouri State Bears 63 – 7. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers linebacker Wynton McManis (16) and defensive lineman Ricky Hunter (91) celebrate during the game against the Missouri State Bears at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Memphis Tigers beat Missouri State Bears 63 – 7. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

Wynton McManis, LB, Memphis

Totaling 62 tackles, 5 tackles for loss and three sacks, Wynton McManis was named a captain during his senior season at Memphis.

At 6’1″ and 225 pounds, McManis is a sideline to sideline linebacker, capable of diagnosing plays quickly with excellent closing speed. While being primarily used to rush the passer, McManis developed an intriguing skill set at Memphis, succeeding in a multitude of roles, to include coverage.

McManis also made his name on special teams, which is essential for any undrafted prospect that wants to overcome the odds.

Given Nick Bellore, the fourth linebacker on the 49ers 2015 roster was brought on to primarily contribute on special teams, there is a chance that McManis can unseat him for the same role.

While their chances vary, each of these rookies are facing an extremely tough challenge as they seek to carve out a role worthy of the 49ers final roster.

Every day of offseason workouts, organized team activities and training camp present an invaluable  opportunity for these undrafted rookies to make a name for themselves and prove to the staff that their being passed over was a mistake rather than an indictment.

With organized team activities scheduled to begin on May 17, keep a close eye on these names as they embrace the challenge of an undrafted free agent.

Next: Why Quinton Patton Has the Most to Lose This Offseason

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