49ers unwisely passed on these 3 players in 2024 NFL Draft

DT Jer’Zhan Newton

After nine long years along the 49ers defensive front, Arik Armstead has packed his bags and headed to the Jacksonville Jaguars on a three-year deal.

He was lethal against the run and proved undeniably that he was worthy of a first-round pick.

Left behind to anchor the trenches is Javon Hargrave. After one full season in San Francisco, he certainly proved that he’s worthy of that hefty four-year contract.

John Lynch added some capable bodies to the defensive front during free agency, but who will line up alongside Hargrave on Week 1 is anyone’s guess.

If Lynch and Co. had drafted the University of Illinois’ Jer’Zan Newton, then the smart money would’ve been on him.

He plays well against the pass and the run, as evident by his four-year total of 18 sacks and 27.5 tackles-for-loss. Not to mention, at 6-foot-2 and 304 pounds, he’s the exact replica of Javon Hargrave.

Not a bad pairing to begin Week 1.

Too bad in September he’ll be lining up in Washington with the Commanders.

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