The 49ers’ trade for the No. 13 pick in this year’s draft puts them in an intriguing spot in the draft order. While they’ll have a chance to snag a strong prospect there regardless of how the draft shakes out in front of them, they’re in prime territory to stop a top prospect from sliding past them.
They’re not going to see LSU quarterback Joe Burrow fall to them. Nor will a player like Ohio State edge rusher Chase Young. However, there are a number of other top prospects who could fall in the draft for one reason or another and give San Francisco a shot at getting great value with the pick they acquired in the DeForest Buckner trade.
While it may not be likely that any of these players make it to the 13th selection, here are some prospects that the 49ers would love to see tumble to them.
Isaiah Simmons | LB | Clemson
The 49ers don’t necessarily need a linebacker, but Simmons is such a sensational defensive prospect that the positional fit wouldn’t matter. He’s a chess piece defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could line up all over the field on any down in any situation. Simmons said his position is “defense,” and a matchup-proof talent would be a game changer for any defensive unit.
Simmons is projected to go No. 7 to the Panthers in Draft Wire’s latest mock.