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CFL Draft: 5 players the 49ers must watch for in 2021

By Nathan Bannerman

A large Canadian flag prior to the Saskatchewan Roughriders vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats game (Photo by Dave Sandford/Getty Images)
A large Canadian flag prior to the Saskatchewan Roughriders vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats game (Photo by Dave Sandford/Getty Images) /
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Jake Burt, Boston College Eagles
Boston College Eagles tight end Jake Burt (84) Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

The 2021 CFL Draft could provide the San Francisco 49ers some much-needed talent in the future. Niner Noise highlights five Canadian players to watch for.

Just a week after the San Francisco 49ers participated in the 2021 NFL Draft, the CFL held their annual draft with some prospects who fans and team personnel should keep their eye on.

The 2021 CFL Draft featured many prospects who didn’t play in 2020. Due to COVID-19, there was no CFL or university football season and combine in Canada last year. Many players had to rely on their game film from 2019 or Zoom combines.

Over the past year, I highlighted some prospects where were eligible for the NFL Draft. Back in August of 2020, I suggest the 49ers take running back Chuba Hubbard and defensive back Jevon Holland. Just before the draft, I brought up a few more names for the team to think about.

Unfortunately, the 49ers didn’t select any Canadians, though quarterback Trey Lance’s father played in the CFL, a few of the suggestions did get picked.

Some in both drafts:

  • Chuba Hubbard was selected by the Carolina Panthers and the Calgary Stampeders.
  • Defensive back Benjamin St-Juste was taken by the Washington Football Team and Toronto Argonauts.
  • Offensive lineman Alaric Jackson was drafted by the BC Lions and signed as an undrafted free agent with the LA Rams.

The 2021 NFL Draft saw a record-tying four Canadians hear their name called, with four more signing UDFA deals. Three of the four UDFAs went to the 49ers’ NFC West opponents.

However, with Canada starting to focus on playing football this summer, new prospects will be showcasing their talents, potentially for NFL contracts. And a chance for the Niners to find some new talent for years to come.

We’ll begin with the first pick in the 2021 CFL Draft, tight end Jake Burt.

Prospect reports are from 3DownNations JC Abbot, unless otherwise credited.