The 5 best first-round NFL Draft picks by the 49ers in franchise history

No. 3: Linebacker Patrick Willis (2007)

Patrick Willis was just recently inducted into the Hall of Fame, and it is incredibly deserved. He was dominant during his career with the 49ers and was one of the most feared linebackers in the league.

Willis was selected 11th overall in the 2007 draft. That is a pretty amazing first round for the Niners, which landed them Willis and Joe Staley Staley, who were the nucleus on each side of the ball for nearly the next decade.

Willis only played eight seasons, but boy, were they impressive. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler and a five-time first team All-Pro. He was the undisputed leader of the team's defense, and when he was playing alongside NaVorro Bowman, the two were arguably the best linebacker duo in the game.

Another fan-favorite, Willis may be one of the best defensive players in 49ers history, but the next player has got to be the best.