San Francisco 49ers: 5 rookies who’ll impress most in 2020 training camp
By Seth Hanson
49ers Tight End Charlie Woerner, Round 6
Former Georgia tight end Charlie Woerner was a surprise to some people. Why would the 49ers draft a tight end at all when the team already has George Kittle? Well, if you’ll remember, the Niners play with two tight ends more frequently than most teams, and with tight end Levine Toilolo leaving in free agency and tight end Garrett Celek retiring, there was a pretty big hole needing to be filled.
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The 49ers had been rumored all offseason to be interested in tight ends Austin Hooper, Trey Burton and even some O.J. Howard trade rumors. They ended up drafting Woerner who, scheme-wise, is a really good fit. And by scheme-wise, he likes to drive people into the turf, exactly what Kyle Shanahan is looking for.
When viewing his game tape, you see lots of plays where he is pulling and lead-blocking viciously at the point of attack. He enjoys the contact which is every coach’s dream. He is more athletic than people will give him credit for as well. It is one thing to maul a guy on the line of scrimmage, but in the 49ers’ zone-blocking run scheme, it requires guys to get moving and get to the next level to pick up linebacker and safeties.
Woerner has quick enough feet to get the job done and fill an important role. This was and still is one of the favorite picks because Woerner has a chance to make an immediate impact as a sixth-round pick, which most teams can’t say for their own in the round.
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As long as he isn’t a complete bust, one should plan on Woerner seeing reps in two-tight end sets and making his presence known. Another hard-nosed tone-setter like Colton McKivitz, who is going to be a welcome addition.