The San Francisco 49ers hold the No. 7 overall pick in the NFL Draft after suffering through a very disappointing campaign, but having a high draft pick gives them the opportunity to draft an impact player needed to help turn this team around. That being said, drafting a bust could set them even further back. Here are three players the 49ers need to avoid in the first round of the draft:
3) DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon Ducks
Buckner is a top 10 pick in almost every mock draft, but drafting him would be a mistake for San Francisco. Teams may get caught up with Buckner's physical tools (6'7", 290 lbs.), but he starred on one of the worst defenses in the country. Raw with his technique, Buckner occasionally put up good numbers but never was able to consistently make a tangible impact and often faded out of games.
2) Leonard Floyd, OLB/DE, Georgia Bulldogs
Floyd has seen his draft stock skyrocket since the end of the season, and that's something that always raises red flags to me. Why wasn't he considered a top 15 pick during the season? He really struggles when he's asked to do anything other than rushing the passer. He lacks good instincts, is far too stiff in coverage, and is really bad at reading opposing offenses. As a result, he's very hesitant when attacking a ball-carrier and often overruns plays.
1) Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis Tigers
It's no secret that San Francisco needs a quarterback, but taking one just to fill a position of need could be a giant waste of the pick. There's a train of thought at the 49ers will reach for Lynch, yet that's exactly what it would be - a reach. Lynch is in no position to play this year, and probably needs a few years of seasoning and learning before he can be successful. The Niners would be much better position to draft an impact defensive player.
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