SF 49ers post-Super Bowl 7-round mock NFL Draft

Now it’s time for the SF 49ers to bolster an existing strength by adding to its defensive line.

It’s entirely possible this happens in the first round, especially if they solidify the cornerback room in free agency, with players like Michigan EDGE rusher Kwity Paye or Gregory Rousseau out of Miami serving as potential targets there.

But if the board doesn’t shake out that way, Penn State’s Shaka Toney would also be a nice addition to the team and someone who wouldn’t necessarily need to come in as an every-down starter as a rookie.

Toney, who is a massive fit in defensive line coach Chris Kocurek’s Wide 9 scheme, is explosive off the edge and has the production to match, racking up 20 sacks in just 40 career games, including five in eight contests during his senior year.

At this point in the draft, teams are looking for players who can make specific impacts, and with EDGE Nick Bosa looking to return to form after tearing his ACL in Week 2 of the 2020 season, Toney is the type of player who could plug in opposite Bosa on passing downs while Arik Armstead continues his role as the base down defensive end.

If there was a lesson to be learned from the last two NFC Championship games, it’s that a strong defensive line can help build a Super Bowl-contending squad. Increasing the quality of the depth for 2021 should be a priority, and Toney should be solid in helping to do so.