San Francisco 49ers: Grading each rookie NFL Draft pick after 2019 season

Much like Dre Greenlaw, rookie offensive tackle Justin Skule found himself thrust into a prominent starting role due to injury.

In the case of Skule, however, it was left tackle Joe Staley suffering multiple injuries over the course of the year, which allowed the former Vanderbilt product to get eight starts in 2019.

Skule’s performance during those starts far exceed what the normal expectation level would likely be for a day-three offensive lineman, who was projected to be little more than a developmental swing tackle. In that regard, Skule was excellent. And the fact the 49ers were able to weather some key injuries along their offensive line, thanks largely to both Skule and fellow tackle Daniel Brunskill, is commendable.

But Skule also gave up a team-high six sacks in that abbreviated time, according to Pro Football Focus, which is partially a reason why Brunskill surpassed Skule on the depth chart later on in the season.

Still, rare are the sixth-round picks who make a notable impact in their rookie campaigns, and Skule can attest to having done just that.