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San Francisco 49ers: NFL Draft Mock 1.0

By Phillip Benson

Nov 28, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium. The Sooners defeated the Cowboys 58-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium. The Sooners defeated the Cowboys 58-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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First Round (Pick #7): OLB Darron Lee, Ohio State

While many draft experts and anticipated fans want to see the 49ers take the quarterback and local Bay Area native, Jared Goff, at number seven, Kelly’s offensive mind should take a switch to defense, and draft Darron Lee.

Colin Kaepernick went down in 2015 with inconsistency and numerous injuries, and Blaine Gabbert came in and made the rest of the season interesting, despite only racking up three wins. Gabbert threw for 2031 yards, 63.1 completion percentage, 10 Touchdowns, seven interceptions, and an impressive comeback win on the road in overtime against the Chicago Bears. This is enough to give a shot under Chip Kelly’s offense.

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Passing on Goff, bringing some life and assistance to NaVorro Bowman would be nice for the 49ers. After retaining Ian Williams, the need for a defensive lineman is off the boards as Glenn Dorsey, Arik Armstead, and Quinton Dial are still there. But some speed at the linebacker position is needed and that is where Lee comes in. Only a redshirt sophomore out of The Ohio State University, he has had a stellar two seasons as a starter for Urban Meyer’s defense, and played a big part in the National Title win over the Oregon Ducks a year before.

A former quarterback in high school, Lee has the athleticism and burst to be effective. He has the durability and ability to stop the run and cover balls thrown towards the sidelines and up the middle. Michael Wilhoite does not currently have those abilities. Adding another sure tackler after Bowman led the NFL in tackles in 2015 could boost the pressure on opposing offenses.

With a new defensive coordinator for 2016, it is yet to be seen how he handles the defense, but the 3-4 defense will remain. Lee has sneaky pass rushing abilities after accruing 12.0 sacks in his two seasons starting for the Buckeyes. This versatility can allow the 49ers to have Ahmad Brooks come off the bench, or release him altogether. If Wilhoite struggles at inside linebacker, Lee could eventually make the switch inside, much like Bowman did. Eli Harold could then slide into the outside linebacker position opposite of Aaron Lynch.

Myles Jack is a highlight and projected top-five pick, so trading up would probably be the only option. The young and athletic Lee at number seven would spark the defense and be a nice sidekick for Bowman and the linebacking corps.

Next: Second Round