It’s George Kittle, Garrett Celek, and now Kaden Smith. The 49ers needed tight end depth.
The San Francisco 49ers have finally addressed the wide receiver position, twice, and now they have selected Tight End Kaden Smith out of Stanford with the No 176. in the 2019 NFL Draft.
It’s another big body at six feet, five inches and 253 pounds. Smith could be called up into the redzone to make some catches in the area the 49ers have struggled with for the better half of a decade. His catching is superb and on paper that might be exactly what he was drafted for: Catching balls in the redzone.
He’s is a hell of a vertical receiver and his blocking will serve well as the second tight end on the field, but he has been taken advantage of on occasion. This also affects his route-running ability as linebackers have been able to steer him off course several times. If the 49ers can get his balance figured out, he could be a great depth piece. He also at times has issues with separation, which is a big Kyle Shanahan offense no-no.
The 49ers can use some tight end depth. It’s George Kittle, Garrett Celek, and then a revolving door of bodies. Celek had a lackluster 2018 thanks to injury, but even if healthy, the lack of consistent backups is concerning. They also may have drafted Jalen Smith in the third round to fill the role of a tight end as well given his physical traits. In the event of Kittle injuring himself, the 49ers would have no answers with what they have. Smith hopefully can bring some depth.
Highlights:
Draft Profiles: Matt Waldman of RSP breaks down Smith
NFL.Com says he was a 6th round talent.
49ers draft picks
1. First round: No. 2 overall Nick Bosa, Defensive end, Ohio State
2. Second round: (36 overall)Deebo Samuel, Wide receiver, South Carolina
3. Third round: (67 overall)Jalen Hurd, Wide receiver, Baylor
4. Fourth round: (110 overall) Mitch Wishnowsky, Punter, Baylor
5. Fifth round: (No. 148) Dre Greenwood, linebacker, Arkansas
6. Sixth round: (No. 176) Kaden Smith, tight end, Stanford
7. Sixth round: (183 overall)
8. Sixth round: (198 overall)
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