Niner Noise
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49ers NFL Draft needs: 2018 offensive line big board

By Florito Maniego

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 17: Quenton Nelson #56 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after a 10-yard touchdown reception by Corey Robinson against the USC Trojans in the fourth quarter of the game at Notre Dame Stadium on October 17, 2015 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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AUBURN, AL – SEPTEMBER 10: Quarterback Sean White #13 of the Auburn Tigers carries the ball behind offensive lineman Braden Smith #71 of the Auburn Tigers during their game against the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL – SEPTEMBER 10: Quarterback Sean White #13 of the Auburn Tigers carries the ball behind offensive lineman Braden Smith #71 of the Auburn Tigers during their game against the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /

No. 4: Braden Smith (Auburn)

Auburn’s Braden Smith would be a solid addition to any NFL team. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 303 pounds, Smith’s superb physical attributes make him stand out as an offensive guard prospect.

The Tigers offensive lineman has impressive upper-body strength and absorbs contact well, according to his NFL.com draft profile. With his massive arms and legs and freaky strength, Smith is able to maul defenders and prevent any penetration in the trenches.

In college, Smith played both the tackle and guard positions, which makes him a versatile offensive lineman heading into the NFL. Smith has also shown his ability to run block and protect the quarterback both at a high level.

While his strength and size are NFL-ready, Smith needs to improve his pace and reaction time. The game is much faster in the pros, and Smith would have to work on his hand and feet quickness.

Once he develops his speed, Smith could end up being a top-tier offensive guard in the NFL. The 49ers could draft Smith in the second round to add another big body alongside Staley and Brown to protect Garoppolo.