49ers NFL Draft: 5 prospects who’ll go bust if Niners take them in 2022

49ers bust risk No. 3: CB Tariq Woolen, UTSA

OK, so you might be thinking we’re contradicting ourselves a bit here by listing UTSA cornerback Tariq Woolen as a bust risk after touting him earlier as a player the 49ers had to explore in this year’s NFL Draft.

Somewhat, but there’s a good explanation.

The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Woolen was initially a great draft sleeper, someone worth targeting in the latter rounds who could potentially use his impressive physique (and speed to go with it) to become quite the defensive weapon at the pro level.

However, Woolen’s NFL Combine workouts shot his stock level well into day two, perhaps as high as the second round, which would be far too high for the Niners to use a selection.

It’s important to note Woolen only spent two seasons as a cornerback after transitioning over from wide receiver, so he’s going to be understandably raw breaking into the league despite his impressive physical attributes. Think current San Francisco defensive back Tarvarius Moore, whose 4.32 40-yard time at his pro day turned him into a Round 3 pick after being labeled a day-three selection prior.

The 49ers could target Woolen if he slips, yes. But considering how many a young defensive back struggles to transition into the NFL for the first couple of years or so, risking Woolen’s rawness so early is a gamble the team can’t afford to take.