2018 NFL Scouting Combine: the 49ers look for running backs
By Joseph Naki
Sony Michel, Georgia
At 5-foot-11, 220 pounds of finding the end zone on a frequent basis, Sony Michel would no doubt fit into Kyle Shanahan’s outside-zone blocking schemes perfectly.
Did I mention my infatuation with UGA running backs?
NFL.com views Michel:
"Has good open field vision to extend runs with second level moves, but will drop his pads and meet force with force when it’s time to finish. Also team captain for two years."
A powerful force, Michel brings athletic ability, but its his leadership that is seen on tape.
Kirby Smart, head coach for the Bulldogs, put the ball in Michel’s hands in the second overtime of the 2018 Rose Bowl, then asked his captain of the football team to do what he does best; find the end zone. After a 27-yard touchdown scamper off the left edge, Michel and the Bulldogs sent the Heisman trophy winning Baker Mayfield and his Oklahoma Sooners packing for home.
Michel ran a 4.54, 40-yard dash — good, but not great. Listen, there is track speed then there’s SEC speed. When the pads are on, and opponents from the SEC can’t catch Michel from behind, then you know the kid has football speed.
Speed , agility, power, burst and explosiveness are words that scouts and GMs use when talking about Sony Michel.
The kid is a 49er. Plain and simple, 49ers material to the bone. Select and sign him now!
John Lynch and his personnel department cannot afford to miss on their evaluation process. They have critical needs at corner, linebacker and interior offensive linemen. Addressing Niner needs will no doubt be seen in free agency, but has to come through the NFL Draft as well.
All eyes are on Lynch in his second year as 49ers GM.