49ers NFL Draft 2022: 7-round mock using only Big Ten players

Round 6, Pick No. 220 Overall (Compensatory): 49ers select DB Brad Hawkins, Michigan

Despite already signing veteran cornerback Charvarius Ward in free agency, then grabbing Nick Cross in this mock NFL Draft, the Niners could still look to add some insurance and depth within the secondary, and the late rounds of the draft are the perfect time to do so.

Michigan defensive back Brad Hawkins, 6-foot-1 and 221 pounds, is more of a safety than a cornerback, although he can double as a free safety or a strong safety towards the box.

This might be wise enough, guarding against a possible injury to the hard-hitting Jimmie Ward, while also serving as Cross insurance, too.

In big-nickel packages, where San Francisco would be putting three safeties on the field at one time, Hawkins could also be a candidate to help fill that need and potentially upgrade over the slower, less-versatile Talanoa Hufanga.

Hawkins finished 2021 with 60 total tackles, three of which were for a loss, plus four passes broken up.