Any iteration of a projected 2019 NFL draft has to have the 49ers selecting an edge rusher. It’s the only way it makes sense for San Francisco to go. A recent mock draft from CBS Sports offers an interesting scenario where the 49ers fall to No. 3 overall and make a reach for Kentucky EDGE Josh Allen.
Allen is having a monster year for the Wildcats with 84 tackles, 18.5 tackles-for-loss, and 14 sacks. The senior has 28 sacks in his last three seasons. His athleticism, along with his 6-foot-5, 260-pound frame make him, on paper, an ideal edge rusher in any scheme.
It’s important to note that it’s still extremely early in the draft process. Allen still has time to work his way into the conversation as a top-three selection. This is an intriguing situation for the 49ers though that gets away from San Francisco snaring surefire No. 1 overall pick, Nick Bosa.
If the 49ers are picking third, and Allen is the best EDGE on their board, it would make sense to just take him there. San Francisco’s margin for error in the 2019 draft is extremely slim.
On the other hand, they have only five selections. Picking third and moving back to try and let a player like Allen slide to them is certainly an option if they can acquire more assets and move back to an area where Allen might still come available.
Big, athletic edge rushers are not easy to find though. If Allen is the best player on the 49ers’ board at No. 3, it would behoove them to take him and not risk whiffing on a chance to get a player they think can be a difference maker on defense.
It’ll be fascinating to watch how this year’s EDGE class shakes out given the presumed depth and importance of that position. The fact remains for the 49ers that they need an impact player rushing the quarterback off the edge. If they can get one of those – it’s hard to imagine they’d pass up the chance and risk losing the opportunity.
About the Author: Insidethe49
