Niner Noise
FanSided

5 cornerback prospects SF 49ers should scout for 2021 NFL Draft

By Jeremy Wohlfart

Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) Tigers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) Tigers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Shaun Wade, Ohio State Buckeyes
Shaun Wade, Ohio State Buckeyes (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

player. 812. . Cornerback . Buckeyes . Shaun Wade. 3

SF 49ers Cornerback Target No. 3: Shaun Wade, Ohio State

The Ohio State Buckeyes have done well to produce a lot of early round talent at the cornerback positions, with two first-round selections in 2020 (Jeff Okudah to the Detroit Lions with pick No. 3 and Damon Arnette to the Las Vegas Raiders at pick No. 19).

Shaun Wade looks to continue this run, as he looks set to be an early selection in the 2021 NFL Draft after flashing with the Buckeyes.

Wade has versatility, a trait highly valued in the SF 49ers organization, as he has the size and skill set to play on the outside but also the experience to play in the slot. Ohio State played him there to great effect in 2019 and 2020.

Wade has nine tackles and a pass defended in 2020, but it doesn’t tell the story of how he’s played. Even in games where he gave up play, such as against Penn State, it was less a problem of bad play as it was excellent passing.

If Wade can shore up his stock with some strong performances down the stretch for the Buckeyes, he’ll be a candidate for being drafted early on Thursday night.