49ers NFL Draft 2022: Live tracker, updates and pick-by-pick grades

Round 2, Pick No. 61 Overall: 49ers select EDGE Drake Jackson, USC

For the sixth time in their last eight NFL Draft classes, San Francisco elected to grab a defensive lineman.

This time, it’s USC EDGE Drake Jackson winding up as the 49ers’ premier selection in the draft.

Jackson has played at different weights and in different roles for the Trojans, dealing with some inconsistencies in that regard. As a true 4-3 defensive end, though, the expectation would likely be for the 6-foot-3, 254-pound lineman will add a bit more weight to his frame in order to be more than just a pure speed rusher.

However, Jackson does have sub-5.0 40-yard speed, and that’ll translate well towards him being a quality linemate alongside fellow EDGE Nick Bosa, as the Niners continue their emphasis on being stronger up front than within the secondary.

One could argue San Francisco needed to get more help on its offensive line or at safety, though, so that might be the biggest reason why this selection won’t receive a top-end grade.

Grade: B-