Niner Noise
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San Francisco 49ers: Top 20 NFL draft picks from former general manager Trent Baalke

ByPeter Panacy|
SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 20: San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke speaks to the media during a press conference where Chip Kelly was announced as the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on January 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 20: San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke speaks to the media during a press conference where Chip Kelly was announced as the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on January 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 11: Bryce Petty #9 of the New York Jets is hit by DeForest Buckner #99 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 11: Bryce Petty #9 of the New York Jets is hit by DeForest Buckner #99 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Yes, it’s still early. But Trent Baalke’s selection of former Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner with the team’s first pick in 2016 has a huge impact.

Buckner is a cornerstone piece for the 49ers. And after a solid rookie season last year, Buckner is on pace to become a massive force for San Francisco’s defense.

Just take a look at what Pro Football Focus thought about him after year one:

In truth, Buckner was a no-brainer pick for the 49ers. He was, is and is going to be that talented.

The scary part? Buckner is only beginning to scratch the surface of his potential.