

© Mark J. Rebilas | 2020 Jan 13

Nearly every mock draft has the 49ers taking on of the top three receivers — Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb and Henry Ruggs — with the 13th pick, but is another deserving prospect being kept out of the conversation?

That’s the question Larry Krueger asked The Athletic’s draft expert Dane Brugler, who is fresh off a massive, seven-round mock draft that dropped earlier this week. Brugler believes that the receiver class should actually be considered a “Big Four,” and said the 49ers trading back to draft LSU receiver Justin Jefferson late in the first round is not out of the question.

“I would say it’s worth the conversation, no question,” Brugler said. “It’s not just the big three we’re talking about a receiver, it’s the big four, and Jefferson, he’s in that mix. He’s a different type of receiver, so it just depends on who we’re looking to add. Are we looking to add that explosive play maker, are we looking to add that savvy route runner?

As a junior in 2019, Jefferson led the country with 111 receptions. His 18 receiving touchdowns ranked second in the country—behind only teammate Ja’Marr Chase—and his 1,540 receiving yards were third most.

“Jefferson is so crafty with the way he attacks the stem, he’s able to create his own separation. He’s kind of a throwback with the toughness, no a guy that’s necessarily going to blow by defenders like Henry Ruggs will, but he’s so savvy with footwork, tempo and route depth. He creates those passing windows, so I think he’s a quarterback’s best friend.”

Brugler also discussed the prospect of the 49ers taking a running back late in the first round, something that might come as a surprise considering Kyle Shanahan’s ability to get the most out of relative unknowns.

“It has to be awfully appealing if they have an option, to draft Jonathan Taylor, a J.K. Dobbins, a D’Andre Swift, or Clyde Edwards-Helaire, adding that type of weapon to an offense and what it can mean,” Brugler said. “I think he’s at least worth the conversation and whether or not he’s worth it at that pick.”

Listen to the interview below.