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2017 NFL Draft: Complete 7-Round Mock for the 49ers

By James LeBreton

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 10, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) makes a reception for a touchdown in the second quarter against the UCF Knights at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end Jake Butt (88) makes a reception for a touchdown in the second quarter against the UCF Knights at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 5, Pick No. 146

Jake Butt

Jake Butt might be the best Michigan tight end in Big-Ten history. He leaves as the all-time leader in catches and yards at his respected position.

Butt won’t burn you with speed, but he will go over the middle fearlessly and make the catch. He steps up when it matters most, as evidenced by his first two seasons as a Wolverine, where he had his best statistical performances against Ohio State.

In two seasons as an upperclassmen, Butt was named Big-Ten tight end of the year.

While it’s true Vance McDonald and Garrett Celek we’re just giving healthy extensions, the now ex-Wolverine could stroll into San Francisco and steal the starting job. He’s got the size and attributes to compete in the NFL, and the ball just seems to gravitate towards his 10-inch hands.

Butt’s not going to dazzle you with circus catches, but he will secure the ball in high traffic areas and pick up the first down. His skill set is much higher than a fifth-round selection, but suffering a torn ACL in the Citrus Bowl may cause him to slip down draft boards.

After witnessing former general manager Trent Baalke waste numerous pics on injured players, 49ers fans might find this selection hard to swallow. However, if you’re going to take a chance on an injured player, Butt is the one to take that chance on.

As a player, he brings to the roster what is lacking at the tight end position. Butt has reliable hands, he fights for yardage after the catch and is a red-zone threat. Regardless of the injury, the former Michigan co-captain adds value to the later rounds. It would be foolish for the 49ers to pass on him if he is still available at No. 146 overall.

Next: Kareem Hunt