A quick assessment of the 49ers’ capital in the 2020 NFL draft makes it easy to see why a trade out of the first round would be beneficial. They have the No. 31 pick, then they’re off the clock again until the 139th selection. It’s not often that moving out of the first round is the best method of operation for a team, but San Francisco’s track record of hitting on mid-round picks makes a move back from No. 31 even more logical.
The 49ers have had a ton of mid-round success since general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017. They’ll need to continue that run of success outside the first round in this year’s draft in order to restock the depth on their roster and set themselves up for long-term success.
Here’s a look at some of their best picks from Rounds 2 through 5 during the Lynch-Shanahan tenure:
Round 2
WR Deebo Samuel | Pick 36 | 2019
Samuel’s versatility as a receiver and a runner made him one of the most productive rookie wide receivers in 49ers history. He racked up 961 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns on 71 touches. Samuel was also the team’s top wide receiver with 802 receiving yards. It looks like Samuel was a steal after Year 1, but there’s a chance for him to emerge as one of the best picks from the 2019 draft class if he takes a step up next season.
Other Round 2 picks by Lynch: WR Dante Pettis (2018)