49ers NFL Draft: 5 impact players San Francisco should want on defense

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Siran Neal, Cornerback, Jacksonville State

Today’s NFL rely heavily on corners who can line up with slot receivers and guys who can play at the line-of-scrimmage who are capable to play nickel as well. These highly touted traits are of great commodity for teams across the board throughout the league.

At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, Siran Neal has become the object of my obsession.

Neal is a versatile athlete able to play defensive back in the slot, on the boundary and come off the edge with ease. This coveted combination of athleticism is what defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could really use in his style of defense.

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There is track speed, then there’s football speed. Neal won’t break any 40 times at the NFL Scouting Combine. But what he lacks on the track, he makes up very well with his pads on. Plainly stated, Siran Neal is a football player, and football players are the need in San Francisco.

NFL.com describes Neal as an “aggressive, a wrap-up striker, who drives his feet and finishes. Shows off desired lateral range and athletic ability in run support.”

I covet Neal as a nickel back to start off his career, but later moving to strong safety able to give run support at the line of scrimmage, where he earns his bread and butter.

The former Gamecock would be greeted by the 49ers organization with good standing.

Next: 49ers: Full Scouting Report for Tremaine Edmunds

Look for my next segment where I discuss the importance of protecting franchise quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, by dissecting and targeting five offensive linemen available through free agency and the NFL Draft.