Last year, the 49ers, specifically first-year general manager John Lynch, were widely praised for their 2017 NFL Draft class before the players had even reported to their new teams.
The play of the 49er rookies lived up the hype as well. Defensive end Solomon Thomas started slow but showed flashes of his ability, linebacker Reuben Foster was a heat-seeking missile and might have been a fancy for Defensive Rookie of the Year if he had played all 16 games. Defensive backs Ahkello Witherspoon and Adrian Colbert locked down starting roles in the secondary, and the trio of tight end George Kittle, wide receiver Trent Taylor and undrafted-running back find, Matt Breida, found substantial roles in the Niners offense.