3 Reasons Why the 49ers Should Draft T.J. Watt
Since the departure of troubled linebacker Aldon Smith, the 49ers have been trying to fill the void of pass rushing specialist. Every great defense has one, and all opposing quarterbacks struggle to get away from them.
Aaron Lynch showed promise in his first two years at outside linebacker where he quickly became the starter. The only problem is since that impressive start all he’s given his team is an ankle injury, a four-game suspension and a reason to doubt his ability.
#49ers think Aaron Lynch fits at “Leo” pass-rusher spot. But they’ll look to increase competition, and he’s going to have to fight for role.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) March 31, 2017
He could bounce back and have a great season in 2017. A comeback player in Lynch, and the addition of Watt could do more than beef up the pass rush, it could make it just as dominant as it was just five years ago.
It would also mean the cutting of ties with linebacker Ahmad Brooks. The 33-year-old Brooks has a cap hit of $6.1 million, and declines in production a little more each year.
However, if he doesn’t, the addition of T.J Watt could be even more imperative to the current depth chart. Regardless of whether or not the rest of the defense falls in line behind him, T.J. Watt is more than starter material.
He’s the missing piece that could truly show just how dominant Buckner and Armstead really are.
Next: He Can Defend Against the Pass and the Run