49ers NFL Draft 2022: Jalen Wydermyer could be an intriguing pick

Tight end Jalen Wydermyer is undoubtedly talented, but there are a lot of red flags popping up about his ability. Could the 49ers nevertheless be tempted?

It’s not a secret the San Francisco 49ers have long been looking for a similar mismatch at tight end as All-Pro George Kittle.

It makes sense why as well, another weapon for quarterback Trey Lance is always welcome and defenses would be overstretched facing a two-TE set that is equally ideal to both running and passing the ball in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s style of offense.

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The 2020 NFL Draft was very weak in tight ends with not a single elite prospect to be had in any way, shape or form. 2021 was weak but at least was saved by an elite prospect in Kyle Pitts.

The 2022 class is, somehow, even weaker than 2020.

This is frankly an exceptionally weak tight end class, and it wouldn’t be shocking if the Niners waited until the third round or even later to have one picked.

This is what makes Texas A&M tight end Jalen Wydermyer so interesting.

From a receiving prospect, there’s a lot to like about Wydermyer with his catching ability, him being able to pinpoint the ball in the air, and his hands being very good. He was used in a lot of roles with the Aggies, including in the slot, and versatility is much utilized and valued with Shanahan.

But where he fits especially well is his yards-after-the-catch ability. The 49ers don’t pass long often, they prefer to pass it in space and let the receivers churn out the yards. Wydermyer’s YAC is a strength, and that’s the sort of thing Shanahan wants to see.

Jalen Wydermyer isn’t the perfect 49ers draft prospect

In saying that, however, Wydermyer has a lot to work on. His blocking isn’t where it needs to be, and that’s a definite must to be a three-down starter for San Francisco. While some teams don’t have their tight ends block much, the Niners’ tendency to use screens and quick passes means that tight ends are often called into action on that front. Kittle is an amazing blocker, but he’s a rarity in exactly how good he is.

The other problem is with the prospect’s tape and performance after his collegiate career. Wydermyer never had more than 46 catches or six touchdowns in a season despite his potential, and a poor NFL Combine and pro day have seen his draft stock tank. Once considered a contender to be one of the first tight ends chosen, Wydermyer now looks destined to be a third-day pick.

But that doesn’t need to concern the 49ers, as Kittle was a third-day pick with limited college production as well. What they need is a lump of clay to mold into the tight end they want, and Wydermyer looks like the ideal prospect.

Tight end may not be the biggest need for San Francisco, but don’t be shocked if one does get picked on Day 3.

If it is Wydermyer, he’ll be one of the most interesting picks in the draft class no matter who else is selected.