Richard Sherman’s introductory press conference, and his red suit, pushed our mailbag from Tuesday to Wednesday this week.
Thanks again for all your questions which came via Twitter. Let’s get to it.
I wouldn’t be surprised at all, particularly if there’s a prospect they think they could get later in the first round while acquiring more second- or third-round selections to move back. It’s highly, highly unlikely they trade up given the cost with so many teams potentially in the market for quarterbacks.
Keep in mind, the 49ers’ pick in Round 2 came from the Saints (acquired for a third-round pick last spring) and is 59th overall, 16 picks after selection No. 43 they sent to the Patriots in the Jimmy Garoppolo trade.
Since taking over as Houston’s offensive coordinator in 2008, Kyle Shanahan’s teams have only used one second-round pick on an offensive player, which makes it likely the 49ers use their pick in Round 2 on defense. Cornerback, in particular, might make the most sense.
There are two corners that would fit in the second round that might not be available at No. 59, forcing a trade into somewhere earlier in the round (which could come in a trade down from No. 9). Colorado’s Isaiah Oliver and Auburn’s Carlton Davis are both long-armed press corners that would fit perfectly and offer insurance for Richard Sherman while he works his way back from two Achilles surgeries.
Davis, in particular, is feisty and often compared to Sherman. He’s been seasoned against top competition. Oliver played opposite Ahkello Witherspoon at Colorado in 2016. Both Oliver and Davis have arms longer than the 32-inch threshold typically associated with cornerbacks in the Seahawks-inspired defense.
So who would the 49ers trade back for? My guess is Boston College pass rusher Harold Landy (6-2, 252), who might still be available in the teens if the 49ers don’t take him at No. 9. He’s the best speed rusher in the draft and compares favorably to others that have played in the system: Cliff Avril (6-3, 252), Vic Beasley (6-2, 235) and Yannick Ngakoue (6-2, 250).
Landry’s quickness and change-of-direction skills are enticing. He would solve the team’s pressing need for an explosive edge rusher it hasn’t had since Aldon Smith. Check clips from Landry’s pro day this week:
About the Author: Insidethe49
