3 NFL Draft prospects who could improve 49ers secondary in 2022

49ers Prospect No. 3: Cornerback Marcus Jones (Houston University)

Marcus Jones would be an excellent addition to the 49ers secondary and special teams unit.
The electric Jones boasts a ton of experience as he held a starting position his entire collegiate career. Jones spent his first two years playing at Troy University and his final two years playing at Houston University after transferring.

Jones made his presence felt for Houston’s defense as he earned his coach’s trust enough to cover slot, outside receivers, and even line up as a wide receiver in-game. Should San Francisco draft him, DeMeco Ryan would be gaining a prospect who has shown the ability to be flexible in coverages.

A downside to Jones is his small frame, standing at 5-foot-8 and 185 pounds. However, despite being undersized, Jones compensates with his speed and athleticism, ultimately making him a playmaking machine.

During the 2021 season with Houston University, Jones recorded 41 tackles, five interceptions, 13 pass deflections, and a forced fumble. His playmaking certainly didn’t end there. Jones was an absolute weapon returning kicks with the special teams unit. Overall, in his collegiate career, he scored nine touchdowns as a returner. Six of them kick returns, three of them punt returns.

His lack of size, combined with his electric playmaking ability, may tempt teams to want to take a look to see what he can bring to the table as a nickel cornerback at the next level full time.

The 49ers should be one of those teams considering giving Marcus Jones a call on draft night to bring some spark to its secondary

Strengths: Speed, excellent hip fluidity, return specialist

Weaknesses: Undersized, a bit handsy, ball skills could improve