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San Francisco 49ers: Projecting Each Rookie’s Role in 2016

By Peter Panacy

Jun 8, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers guard Joshua Garnett (65) runs drills during minicamp at the San Francisco 49ers Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 8, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers guard Joshua Garnett (65) runs drills during minicamp at the San Francisco 49ers Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 18, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Ryan Timmons (1) is tackled by LSU Tigers defensive end Danielle Hunter (left) and LSU Tigers defensive back Rashard Robinson (right) in the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Ryan Timmons (1) is tackled by LSU Tigers defensive end Danielle Hunter (left) and LSU Tigers defensive back Rashard Robinson (right) in the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /

Cornerback Rashard Robinson

The 49ers have a lot of depth at cornerback, but the addition of three more rookies will make this camp competition particularly interesting.

Former LSU cornerback Rashard Robinson may have a checkered past at the collegiate level, but his raw skill set is awfully enticing.

The only problem is that it’s raw.

The 6’1″ corner has the size capable of contending taller, bigger receivers at the pro level. And Robinson’s speed makes him a likable project in coming years. His coverage skills need work though.

With veteran corner Tramaine Brock likely securing the No. 1 spot, and the No. 2 job probably going to either Jimmie Ward or Dontae Johnson, Robinson will be looking for a depth spot with guys like Kenneth Acker, Keith Reaser and fellow rookies Will Redmond and Prince Charles Iworah.

Projection

Robinson’s physique may be enough to ensure his spot is safe on the Niners’ 53-man roster this season. He won’t come close to starting his rookie year though. Robinson’s coverage efforts need to be better for that to happen.

But fans should see Robinson in various sub packages and, perhaps, on special teams over the course of 2016.

Next: Will Redmond