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NFL Draft: 1 cornerback 49ers can target in each round

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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Eric Stokes, Georgia Bulldogs
Eric Stokes, Georgia Bulldogs (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Cornerback . Bulldogs . Eric Stokes. 3. player. 814.

SF 49ers Round 3 cornerback: Eric Stokes, Georgia

One of the more intriguing cornerback prospects in the NFL Draft, Eric Stokes had a strong season with the Georgia Bulldogs, and his ability to play in a cover based defensive scheme should interest the Niners if he’s available in the third round.

Stokes has gotten better every season with the Bulldogs, and it culminated in a strong senior season where he had four interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) and four pass deflections.

Stokes has a nose for the football and making plays, and he played in a talented secondary that has some big NFL potential. He played well against big opposition such as Auburn and Tennessee, and he has the sort of skill set that should at least give him a solid NFL career.

What will especially interest teams is the 4.24 40-yard dash time he recorded at his pre-draft workout. Speedy defenders are at a premium, and Stokes has the speed to match just about anyone on the field.

The SF 49ers aren’t a team that has looked early for secondary help in recent drafts. But the third round could be a good spot for them to look at prospects, and Stokes ticks the boxes San Francisco would want.