It’s too early to accurately assess much about the 2021 NFL draft, but it doesn’t take advanced reading of the tea leaves to see which position is shaping up as their top need. They addressed that need with the 30th overall pick in the updated Draft Wire first-round projections.
With their top four cornerbacks all due to hit free agency next season, it stands to reason the 49ers will look at that spot early in the 2021 draft. Luke Easterling of Draft Wire mocked South Carolina cornerback Israel Mukuamu to the 49ers.
Mukuamu is massive for a corner at 6-4, 205 pounds. Last season in 12 games he posted four interceptions and nine pass breakups. His size limits him some athletically, but he has good ball skills and he should have more success in a zone-heavy scheme like San Francisco’s.
Given how difficult it is to evaluate where 2021 prospects are without the benefit of the 2020 college football season, gathering names to keep an eye on throughout the year — if games happen — is the most valuable part of the draft process in June.
Perhaps Mukuamu’s stock rises well above where the 49ers are expected to pick. It could also drop outside of the first round. He’ll be a player to keep an eye on though if/when the college football season gets underway.
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About the Author: Insidethe49
