San Francisco 49ers: NFL Draft Mock 1.0

Third Round (Pick #68):  WR Sterling Shepard, Oklahoma University

Chip Kelly finally gets an offensive weapon, Oklahoma’s Sterling Shepard, who could potentially could be this year’s Tyler Lockett. Playing all four years, Shepard has experience, the mental part of the game, agility, and the vertical. At 41 inches, Shepard had one of the highest verticals in the combine. On top of the combine, he showed great strides and made a name for himself at Senior Bowl.

He can beat defenses across the middle, or he can beat defenses down the field. Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith had a large burden to carry on their shoulders for a poor wide receiving core. Smith’s best ability is the deep ball and it was not utilized. Boldin was used as possession receiver and at this point of his career, does not have the fluidity.

Sliding Shepard into the 49ers’ offensive plans could boost the passing game. Gabbert likes the short throws and controls the tempo. He could connect with Shepard on a consistent basis.

Free agent receivers such as Marvin Jones and Mohammed Sanu, who were free agent targets, are now off the board.

Taking a dynamic player like Laquon Treadwell in the first round is not what the 49ers need early on. Value in the third round with Shepard could be enough to add some life back into the passing game.

Next: Fourth Round