Draft reaction: San Francisco 49ers select TE Cameron Latu No. 101 overall

Draft reaction: San Francisco 49ers select Alabama TE Cameron Latu in the third round

The San Francisco 49ers get an athletic developmental piece to stick behind one of the best weapons in the game in George Kittle with the selection of Alabama tight end Cameron Latu.

A two-year starter for the Crimson Tide, Latu was a lean athletic weapon for the Alabama offense and a key contributor in the short area passing game. During his final two college seasons, Latu put up the best numbers of his career with 56 catches, 787 yards, and an impressive twelve touchdowns. While he was not featured in the passing game, Latu’s upside was clear.

With the 49ers Latu will obviously not start given the 49ers already have one of the best tight ends in the game on the roster. Given Latu’s versatility and athleticism, however, it would not be surprising to see him snuck into certain packages to get touches, especially closer to the goal line. Latu is at least a few years of development away from threatening the starting position.