49ers NFL Draft 2021: 3 edge rushers to target in Round 2
By Peter Panacy
The 49ers could spring for some edge-rushing help in Round 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft, and these three prospects may be worth a flier.
The San Francisco 49ers are all but guaranteed to take a quarterback with their first pick, No. 3 overall, in the 2021 NFL Draft.
After that selection, though, it’s anyone’s guess what direction general manager John Lynch will go.
The Niners could look to bolster their wide receiver room. Some long-term cornerbacks or safeties could also be a high priority, while it wouldn’t be overly shocking to see the team add additional offensive line depth despite some previous moves in free agency.
Yet one notable need is in the pass-rush department, and it’s highly possible San Francisco’s second-round pick, No. 43 overall, is pegged for use on an outside pass-rusher.
Unlike 2019, when the 49ers landed Ohio State EDGE Nick Bosa at No. 2 overall, this year’s class has no clear-cut standout with virtually zero concerns for the pro ranks. Essentially every outside rusher in the 2021 draft has a notable question mark despite there being a good deal of depth in the prospect class.
That means the draft board for edge rushers could be quite fluid, largely contingent on how teams view the proper schematic fit and developmental traits.
Even if the Niners feel comfortable with their pass-rushing depth, it’s never a bad idea to add another, especially if that player can develop well enough on a rookie contract before cashing in down the road.
If San Francisco is are indeed looking at outside pass-rushers in Round 2, particularly to support a coming-off-an-ACL-tear Bosa and possibly to replace also-injured EDGE Dee Ford, these three prospects might be worth a deeper look.