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3 Reasons Why the 49ers Should Draft T.J. Watt

By James LeBreton

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) and Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) and Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) holds up the Cotton Bowl trophy after defeating the Western Michigan Broncos 24-16 at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) holds up the Cotton Bowl trophy after defeating the Western Michigan Broncos 24-16 at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

In 2015, T.J. Watt played in 174 total snaps before seeing his season cut short due to injury. Last season he played in a total of 661 total snaps. Despite having only 14 collegiate starts, he is still pegged as a late first rounder or early second round pick.

If he stayed in college for his senior season, his stock would certainly be on the rise. He could even be a top 10 pick. During the combine he impressed many scouts with his performance. His 137 inch vertical jump tied that of his older brother J.J. Watt. He also bested him in the broad jump by 8 inches.

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The only thing more impressive than his hard work ethic is his ability to finish the play. His long arms allow him to get around his competition, and his quick burst off the line gives him the edge in getting to the ball carrier.

Watt has a knack for chasing down runners from the behind. This keeps the offense in check with minimal gains. His ability to actively utilize his hands within his technique gives him the edge when wrapping up the ball carrier. T.J. knows how to clear the garbage by his feet, and is quick to pick up the fumble.

He’s an ascending talent that many feel will continue to grow once he’s on the appropriate roster. If the 49ers pass on a LEO in the first round, Watt would be a steal with the No. 34 pick overall.

Next: 5 Bad Things the 49ers Could Do in the 2017 NFL Draft

With the NFL draft less than a week away, only time will tell where the youngest Watt will end up.