NFL Draft Profile: How Clelin Ferrell fits with the 49ers

Today we take a closer look at Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell as the San Francisco 49ers may look to trade down in the first round for a pass rusher.

Greetings Faithful! We are back with another scouting report. Today we return to the defensive side of the ball and take a closer look at Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell. The San Francisco 49ers made some noise in free agency trading for Dee Ford in exchange for 2020 second round draft pick with the Kansas City Chiefs. While I love the trade the 49ers made, I still believe pass rusher is a high priority for the team.

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Currently, the 49ers own the second overall pick in the draft and the popular pick at the moment is Nick Bosa, and rightfully so. However, what if the 49ers traded back in the first round and were still looking to add pass rushing talent to their roster? If that’s the case, Clelin Ferrell could be an option. Let’s learn some more about the Clemson product.

Combine Results:

Bench Press: 25 Reps
3 Cone Drill: 7.26
20 yard Shuttle: 4.40
60 Yard Shuttle: 12.07

Measureables:

Height: 6’4”
Weight: 264 lbs.
Hands: 10 ½”
Arms: 34 1/8”

Summary:

Clelin Ferrell was one of the most dominant defensive ends in college football last season. Yes, he played on perhaps the most lethal defensive line with at least two other projected first round draft picks (Christian Wilkins & Dexter Lawrence), but Ferrell was the best of the bunch. Has a physical and prototypical frame that scouts and evaluators seek at the next level. Watching tape, his first step and snap reaction off the line was amongst the quickest of all eligible defensive ends in the country.

Can easily slip into gaps and finds the tight angles when coming in to disrupt. Utilizes his long arms well, and will punch and control blockers along the edge. Since 2017 he has posted 36.5 tackles and 21 sacks.

Plays his best football and has the biggest impact when the stakes are at their highest. Ferrell has the ability to consistently create pressure and disruption in the opponent’s backfield.

Has efficient speed for his position, and can get to the quarterback quickly, and projects to be a power rusher at the next level. Violent hands against blockers with long, lanky arms that help him in one to one matchups (See Below!).

Watching his tape, Ferrell plays a tough, physical, and relentless style of football. Will rarely let up when a play extends beyond the pocket, and will consistently bring heat on the passer.

Another quality that makes Ferrell a first round lock is what often gets overlooked…His ability to create holes and plays for his teammates along the defensive line. They don’t have the stats that they have without the opportunities that Ferrell often created for them.

Is Ferrell a fit for the 49ers?

Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images

If the San Francisco 49ers trade down…or if Ferrell drops enough, and the 49ers trade back into the first round, and don’t select a pass rusher at number two overall then Ferrell would be a quality addition to the 49ers defensive line. Ferrell isn’t always going to “Wow” you with his sack-producing abilities, but what impresses me is his relentless motor and the consistent heat and pressure he brings play in and play out. His effort and hard work often required double-team coverage and constant attention along the line. His style of play would fit well in a 4-3 base. His strong play against the run is also appealing, and when you add that to his pass-rushing abilities, Ferrell has the makings of a three-down starter at the next level. If the 49ers elect to trade down in the first round and have their sights set on a pass rusher then Clelin Ferrell could be an intriguing option.

What are YOUR thoughts on Clelin Ferrell? If the 49ers trade down in the first round is Ferrell someone you would select? Please share in the comments below!