SF 49ers NFL Draft: 5 day-three quarterbacks John Lynch should look at
By Peter Panacy
SF 49ers Target No. 4: Ian Book, Notre Dame
819. . Quarterback. Fighting Irish . Ian Book. 4. player
The last time the SF 49ers grabbed a quarterback in the NFL Draft out of Notre Dame, it worked out pretty well.
While current Fighting Irish quarterback Ian Book is no Joe Montana and probably never will come close, there’s a lot to like about what Book could potentially offer, either as a solid backup with a “Joe Cool” like demeanor or a possible long-term starter if he learns to hone his rushing skills and rely more on his passing technique.
Still, the dual-threat capabilities are there, as Book rushed for over 1,000 yards combined with 12 total touchdowns the last two years. Book’s 2020 passing numbers aren’t quite as prolific as the 3,034-yard, 34-touchdown campaign he enjoyed the year before. But he’s done a good job protecting the ball for the most part and doesn’t shy away from delivering the ball deep downfield.
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That’s something San Francisco’s offense has largely missed the last three-plus years.
While Book’s smallish size could be a problem at the next level, his ability to extend plays with his legs could be an added bonus, giving the SF 49ers offense another dimension it hasn’t exactly had in recent seasons.
Like Levi Lewis, Book probably isn’t anything more than a sixth- or seventh-round pick, but that’s perfect flier territory for the Niners.