5 draft picks 49ers can select to replace Jimmie Ward
By Peter Panacy
895. . Safety. Broncos . J.L. Skinner. 2. player
49ers safety target No. 2: J.L. Skinner, Boise State
The Niners already revealed that they have at least some modest interest in Boise State safety J.L. Skinner, having met with him at the NFL Combine last month, according to Steph Sanchez of the 49 Karats Podcast:
Boise State safety JL Skinner confirms that he’s met with the #49ers and tells me a little about how playing track and basketball give him an advantage on the field. #NFLCombine #BoiseState pic.twitter.com/incpUC2YLh
— Steph Sanchez (@Steph49K) March 2, 2023
At 6-foot-4 and 209 pounds, Skinner has a unique size advantage that could make him an intriguing option on day two of the draft, should he either fall to San Francisco late in Round 3 or be convincing enough for the 49ers to trade up from that spot.
Solid as both a free safety and strong safety, a team like the Niners would appreciate his versatility and physical nature.
While Skinner’s coverage skills need some modest improvement, he looks the part to be a good cover option within a year or two of going pro.
Just what San Francisco would need with Tashaun Gipson around for one more season.