Richie James: Why 49ers wide receiver makes the roster in 2018

The San Francisco 49ers selected wide receiver Richie James in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Niner Noise discusses why the former Middle Tennessee State standout will make the roster before the season opener this year.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch and Co. certainly have a knack for finding late-round gems in the NFL Draft.

In 2017, for instance, the Niners acquired safety Adrian Colbert, who still made a huge impact during his rookie season despite being a seventh-round draft pick. Pro Football Focus gave Colbert a solid overall grade of 77.6 for his first-year performance.

The 49ers may have taken another potential steal in former Middle Tennessee State wide receiver Richie James during the 2018 NFL Draft. James was taken off the board 240th overall in the seventh round.

As a late-round draft choice, expectations were not too high for James heading into rookie minicamp. However, it’s safe to say he made a strong first impression with three catches during seven-on-seven drills and another one in team sessions, according to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco.

James also showed his toughness and competitiveness throughout the minicamp. Particularly, after tangling up with undrafted cornerback Emmanuel Moseley during a one-on-one drill and losing his helmet, James still managed to make a play and snatch the ball in mid-air.

“This is a guy who we’re really fond of as a staff,” said Lynch after selecting James last April. “Just a fearless player and has a lot of will that shows up on tape. (He) has a little swagger to him.”

Growing up in a rough neighborhood in Florida, James has the grit and determination to succeed in the pros. James plays with a chip on his shoulder, especially with the fact that many teams passed up on him.

James has also dealt with multiple adversities, including several injuries that plagued him in college. He most notably sustained a broken collarbone and an ankle sprain during his junior year, which likely affected his low draft stock.

Despite these red flags, San Francisco still took a chance on James, who’s in good position to make the roster.

Even though he’s only 5-foot-10 and 183 pounds, James fits head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense fairly well. James possesses striking speed as proven by his 4.48 40-yard-dash time from the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine.

Prior to 2017, James recorded 2,959 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns in his first two seasons. These numbers prove that the former MTSU standout can produce and perform at a high level barring any injuries.

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 5/22/2018.

James will definitely have his hands full competing for not only a roster spot, but also a role with the 49ers. Because he lacks size and strength, James would fit best as a slot receiver in Shanahan’s system.

While he wouldn’t necessarily start over Trent Taylor and fellow rookie Dante Pettis in the middle, James would still serve as a serviceable backup.

Alongside his physical traits, James possesses good pass-catching techniques and shiftiness that separates him effectively from defenders. James’ former MTSU head coach Rick Stockstill spoke with 49ers Senior Reporter Joe Fann and praised James’ playmaking abilities.

“He had great ball skills,” Stockstill mentioned on the 49ers Studios Podcast. “He had great vision. We thought we could develop him as a wide receiver.”

Stockstill also raved about James’ incredible quickness, catch radius and abilities running after the catch. Lastly, Stockstill said, “The 49ers are getting a competitive, hungry player. I think at the end of the day, the 49ers will be pleased with what they picked.”

Next: San Francisco 49ers: Top 4 position battles to watch in OTAs

Although he is small in stature, James has the skill set and the motivation to successfully make the roster cut this year with San Francisco. Considering that he’s still a raw talent, James could even skyrocket in the NFL if he consistently improves his craft.