5 under-the-radar prospects who'll impress at 2024 NFL Combine
By Peter Panacy
NFL Combine sleeper No. 5: Edge Javonte Jean-Baptiste, Notre Dame
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Once again, despite tossing multiple assets at the position, the 49ers are in need of edge-rushing help opposite Nick Bosa. With Chase Young, Clelin Ferrell and Randy Gregory ticketed for free agency, and two-year pro Drake Jackson underwhelming thus far, it wouldn't be a shock to see the Niners use multiple picks to reinforce their pass-rushing efforts.
A day-three draft target to watch is Notre Dame edge rusher Javonte Jean-Baptiste.
With five sacks in 2023 after transferring from Ohio State, the 6-foot-5 and 238-pount Jean-Baptiste might struggle with strength against NFL-level offensive tackles, so monitoring his strength workouts at the NFL Combine will be a must.
However, he has both the twitchiness and footwork to make up for other shortcomings, and those are the attributes that'll surely flash when he begins his drills from Indy.
Even though he might not rise above being a day-three pick, a solid combine performance could easily push him into Rounds 4 or 5.
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