49ers: 5 Canadian sleeper prospects to target in 2021 NFL Draft

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(Photo by Ina FASSBENDER / AFP) (Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images) /

The 2021 NFL Draft is filled with talent from Canada. The 49ers should keep their eyes out on these five sleeper prospects.

The San Francisco 49ers have been looking forward to the 2021 NFL Draft since the early part of last year. But with COVID-19 impacting many leagues, including Canadian Universities, finding solid prospects is a bit trickier this time.

However, many Canadians impressed this season south of the border including Alabama’s wide receiver John Metchie III. He’s not eligible for this year’s draft, but Niners fans will want him if the team selects Metchie’s former collegiate teammate, quarterback Mac Jones, in April.

Metchie had a remarkable season with the Crimson Tide. He had 55 catches for 916 yards and six touchdowns. With fellow teammate, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, set to be taken early in the draft, Metchie’s stats are sure to rise next season.

It was refreshing to see Canadians shine in the US market. Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool broke the barrier last year with his outstanding season. He ended his rookie year with 11 total touchdowns including eight during Pittsburgh’s 11-game winning streak.

Claypool and Metchie grew up on opposite ends of Canada. Claypool is a native of Abbotsford, B.C. While Brampton, ONT claims Metchie as their own. But both have proven, despite the Canadian rules being different than American, kids from the Great White North can carve out a career in the NFL.

Before the 2020 season, I picked three Canadians the 49ers should target. Two will make the list yet again, starting with Jevon Holland.

All scouting reports and prospect breakdowns courtesy of Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network unless otherwise indicated.