NFL Draft Profile: How Christian Wilkins fits with the 49ers

Today we take a closer look at Clemson defensive tackle product Christian Wilkins as the San Francisco 49ers may look to trade up into the back of the first round.

Greetings Faithful! We are getting closer to the 2019 NFL Draft. Today, we are going to take a closer look at defensive tackle Christian Wilkins of Clemson. While the San Francisco 49ers have made a lot of investments addressing the defensive line we have learned in this league that there truly isn’t a thing as too much depth. The question is, should a prospect such as Christian Wilkins drop to the second round, would the 49ers pounce and select him? Just in case they do, here is a closer look at the defensive tackle out of Clemson.

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Christian Wilkins was not only a defensive star on the field for Clemson, but off of it as well. He earned All-American honors, while playing a significant role for Clemson towards two national championships (Both against national power-house Alabama), and for his work on the Clemson defensive line. Off the field Wilkins made a positive difference in the lives of young students serving as a substitute teacher during the off-season. Christian Wilkins is a well-rounded prospect and everything you would want when looking to add talent and personality to your locker room.

Combine Results:

40 yard dash: 5.04
Bench Press: 28 reps
Vertical Jump: 29.5”
Broad Jump: 107.0”
20 Yard Shuttle: 4.55

Measurables:

Height: 6’3”
Weight: 315 lbs.
Hands: 9 ¾”
Arms: 32 ½”

Summary:

The senior out of Clemson has made a big impact both on and off the field. He is the kind of player any franchise would want on their roster. Not only did he graduate early and return to Clemson for his senior season, he spent the offseason substituting inside school classrooms and being a positive role model for students of all ages. In 2018 Wilkins had 51 tackles, with 1 forced fumble loss and 6 sacks. Wilkins has good burst and speed off the snap and makes an impact and presence in the opposition’s backfield.

Wilkins has a natural blend of upper and lower body strength. He is often double teamed along the line of scrimmage and makes an impact that helps his fellow defensive lineman make plays. Wilkins has demonstrated an ability to stop the run and the pass. Wilkins can be looked at as a three down defensive lineman. On tape, more often than not, Wilkins causes disruption at the point of attack.

He has demonstrated his ability to rush the passer from the inside, which looks to be his natural position as he transitions to the next level. Has experience as a base end and defensive tackle. Has great burst on the snap with quick hands on the initial contact. Wilkins has great flexibility and finds the tight and awkward angles when creating pocket pressure.

Wilkins will run fluidly through his hips when crashing the pocket. Wilkins has a knack for the football, batting down 15 passes during his career. Lastly, he had a tremendous locker room presence during his time at Clemson, and has demonstrated his ability to be a leader both on and off the field. Wilkins has a lot of pride, and came back to Clemson this past season, instead of going pro, so he could win another national championship. Wilkins has dedication and the heart of a champion.

Is Wilkins a fit for the 49ers?

At the moment, the defensive line, particularly the interior seem set. However, the 49ers are one trade away from changing that narrative. As I mentioned earlier, in this league you can never have too much depth at any position. Should the 49ers decide to move on from Arik Armstead or Solomon Thomas for any reason, then Wilkins could be an intriguing prospect. However, if the 49ers have their sights set on Wilkins they might need to trade into the backend of the first round (Should Wilkins drop that far). Again, at the moment, the 49ers seem set on the interior defensive line. However, I believe Wilkins would be a great addition to the 49errs defense should the team part ways with Armstead or Thomas. Keep a close eye on Wilkins should these scenarios happen. Wilkins is the perfect blend of on-field talent and off-field personality that any time would crave for.

What are YOUR thoughts on Christian Wilkins? If the team were to trade Solomon Thomas or Arik Armstead would you be interested in selecting Christian Wilkins? Please share in the comments below!