49ers NFL Draft: 1 pass-rusher to target in each round

49ers NFL Draft Target Rd. 2: Jaelan Phillips, Miami

Should the Niners choose to take a quarterback, offensive lineman, or cornerback in the first round, Miami EDGE Jaelan Phillips could be their target in the second round.

After playing his first two seasons at UCLA before transferring to Miami, Phillips had modest success and countless injuries during his 11 games with the Bruins.

But that all changed when he took the field for Miami. He was an electric player in 2020, playing equally well against the run and pass. Standing 6-foot-5 and 258 pounds, Phillips’ pro-ready blend of size, length, power, technique, and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His versatility lies in his ability to play with his hand in the dirt, bending the edge on certain downs, lining up inside or out, and making plays in space.

With Phillips in the lineup, new defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans can slide his defensive linemen around the line, which could allow a player like Arik Armstead to play inside or out and return to the form that saw him reach double digits in sacks in 2019.

The only question for teams regarding Phillips will be his injury history. If he eases those concerns, he may not have to wait too long to hear his name called on draft day.