Bet you didn’t see that coming
There have been plenty of lists going around that involve the San Francisco 49ers. It’s not interesting to talk about the defensive rookie of the year because it’s no surprise Nick Bosa is the favorite. He was the first defensive player selected in the 2019 NFL Draft. You’ll also see Deebo Samuel on just about every offensive list, which is cool. Samuel was also one of the first few skill players selected, so that’s not terribly surprising. Add in the fact that Kyle Shanahan is his coach, and it’s easy to see why people are high on Samuel. Those are boring to talk about.
Here’s an obscure list that might raise some eyebrows. MMQB recently made a list called the “all-undrafted team.” So it’s the best players who were signed as undrafted free agents. Only one 49ers player made the list, and I bet you would not have guessed it was QB Nick Mullens. Here’s what they said about Mullens:
Not to kick this off with a hot take, but Mullens last year showed the patience, pocket toughness and field vision of a future NFL starter. We know Keenum can orchestrate an offense, but it’d be one dependent on run-pass balance and defined reads. This team should see if Mullens can turn into the NFL’s next Tony Romo (yes, we realize the two players have completely different styles), and if it doesn’t work out, Keenum is waiting in the wings.
Holy hyperbole!
One of the least talked about training camp battles is Mullens against C.J. Beathard. To me, there’s not much of a competition. Mullens was thrown into such a rough spot last year and for him to compete the way he did was impressive. I have a tough time finding what Beathard does better on a consistent basis.
I’m assuming the writer meant that the 49ers should try and flip Mullens for a draft pick? I’m not holding my breath on him becoming the next Romo, but Mullens was pretty solid given his situation in 2018.
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