Niner Noise
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San Francisco 49ers: 5 potential breakout players in 2017

By Adam Trovato

Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers right cornerback Jimmie Ward (25) and cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) reacts in the game against the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers won 28-0. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers right cornerback Jimmie Ward (25) and cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) reacts in the game against the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers won 28-0. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) forces an incomplete pass while Chicago Bears defensive back Brandon Boykin (25) attempts to make the catch during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) forces an incomplete pass while Chicago Bears defensive back Brandon Boykin (25) attempts to make the catch during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 4: Rashard Robinson

Easily one of former general manager Trent Baalke’s best late-round picks, cornerback Rashard Robinson had an outstanding rookie season. Other than getting absolutely eaten alive by Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans for 96 yards and two touchdowns, Robinson locked down wideouts all season long in 2016.

Despite being the 20th cornerback taken in the 2016 NFL Draft, Robinson led 2016 rookie CBs in coverage snaps per reception. In fact, he was 10th in the entire league in this statistical category. This number of 12.2 coverage snaps per reception indicate an ability to play major snaps without attracting many opportunities for opposing quarterbacks.

With Robinson’s long and rangy 6-foot-3 frame, paired with his elite ability to blanket his counterpart in press coverage, he is the ideal CB for Robert Saleh’s 4-3 under defense. Also consider Robinson only played eight games at LSU and only started six last season. That’s 14 starts beyond the high school level.

Expect Robinson’s development to continue extremely quickly. Don’t be surprised if he is an elite press corner within a years time.