The 49ers are hosting one of the best defensive prospects in the 2018 NFL draft this week, according a report form the Sacramento Bee. Alabama defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick will be put through the rounds in Santa Clara on one of the team’s 30 official pre-draft visits.
Fitzpatrick (6-0, 204) spent most of his time at the “Star” position in the middle of the Crimson Tide’s imposing defense during his three college seasons. He also worked at strong safety and cornerback.
In the 49ers’ scheme, Fitzpatrick would likely be best suited to play slot cornerback or free safety. He could also play cornerback outside in a pinch, although he lacks the typical size and length (31 1/4-inch arms) to play outside where Richard Sherman (32-inch arms) and Akhello Witherspoon (33-inch arms) are expected to start in 2018. Both stand 6-3.
Fitzpatrick could certainly be the top player on San Francisco’s board with the No. 9 pick April 26. However, there’s positional overlap with Jimmie Ward, a 2014 first-round pick, as he enters the last season of his rookie contract. Ward is slated to be the 49ers’ highest-paid defensive player making $8.5 million fully guaranteed on his fifth-year option.
Ward at the moment doesn’t have a set position. Kyle Shanahan said at the owners meetings recently that Ward will play cornerback with the first unit during spring practices in Sherman’s absence as Sherman recovers from his Achilles tear and surgery to remove bone spurs from his other foot. Ward began last season at free safety before going down with a fractured forearm midway through the season.
He was replaced by rookie seventh-round pick Adrian Colbert, who asserted himself well and could retain the starting job in 2018. Ward could also be tried at slot cornerback where the team played K’Waun Williams last season. Williams was given a modest three-year contract midway through the year but would hardly be a lock to make the roster if the 49ers drafted a player like Fitzpatrick.
Fitzpatrick’s physicality near the line of scrimmage and versatility make him an appealing prospect. He’s also well regarded for work ethic and leadership traits off the field.
About the Author: Insidethe49
