San Francisco 49ers: A few solid options with ninth-overall pick
By Kevin Saito
With the 49ers reportedly moving Jimmie Ward back to corner, that leaves them with a need at the safety position.
Outside of Jaquiski Tartt, the team has a collection of leftovers, really, and will need to upgrade the position. So, why not at number nine in this year’s Draft?
The Florida State product is considered the best safety prospect in this year’s draft class and long pegged as a first round prospect, the six-foot-three, 215 pounder has also been touted as a locker room culture-changer.
Scouts say that he commands respect from his peers, and that when he speaks, they listen. His work ethic and preparation are well documented and respected from other players on the squad, James has the ability to be a forceful, positive influence on San Francisco’s secondary.
Given his elite athleticism, undeniable work ethic, and superior skills, the biggest knock on James his his experience on the field. In three seasons with the Seminoles, James played a total of 26 games – with injury limiting him to just two games as a sophomore.
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For his three-year career at Florida State, James racked up 186 total tackles (110 solo) – and 15 for a loss – 5.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 15 passes defensed, and three interceptions, one returned for a touchdown.
He’s a willing tackler, good near the line of scrimmage or in deep coverage, and has a knack for making plays on the ball. He’s a big hitter and is fundamentally sound.
Given the need for help in the defensive backfield, and his ability to step in and contribute on day one, the 49ers could do a lot worse than Derwin James.