DALLAS, TEXAS – OCTOBER 12: CeeDee Lamb #2 of the Oklahoma Sooners runs the ball against the Texas Longhorns in the second quarter during the 2019 AT&T Red River Showdown at Cotton Bowl on October 12, 2019 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The San Francisco 49ers have had an interesting post-Super Bowl offseason, and they will look to reload through the NFL Draft for 2021.
The San Francisco 49ers came up just short in Super Bowl LIV a couple of months ago, and they want to reload in order to make another run at a title. With Jimmy Garoppolo planted firmly as the leader, John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan will aim to build around the QB for years to come.
Trades have resulted in an interesting mix of picks for the Niners, as they have two in the first round but then have a huge gap to wait through until the fifth round. That could all change as the 2020 NFL Draft approaches, or even during the course of it, but for now, they’ll likely only wind up with two players that can help immediately.
First Round
13
CeeDee Lamb
WR Oklahoma
CeeDee Lamb is unquestionably one of the top receivers in the 2020 NFL Draft class, and he should be available right in the middle of round one. Currently, the 49ers will rely on Jalen Hurd, Kendrick Bourne and Marquis Goodwin behind #1 WR Deebo Samuel. Emmanuel Sanders, who was with the team for their Super Bowl run after a trade last October, signed with the Saints this offseason, creating a new need here. If the 49ers are able to nab Lamb, or any top receiver in this position, they will be able to create a fearsome attack along with Samuel and tight end George Kittle.
This pick was acquired in the 49ers-Colts DeForest Buckner trade in March.
31
Noah Igbinoghene
CB Auburn
Auburn’s Noah Igbinoghene is slowly and somewhat quietly climbing NFL Draft boards, and he may just sneak into the end of the first round. If he lasts until #31, the 49ers would likely love the opportunity to grab the corner back. The Auburn product would then get the chance to learn from one of the best in Richard Sherman, and he could step in to help right away.
Igbinoghene began his collegiate career as a wide receiver, appearing in all 14 of the Tigers games in 2017. He also served as the team’s primary kickoff returner and averaged 23.8 yards. The next season, he made the switch to corner back and started 9 of 13 games. Igbinoghene continued to serve as a returner as well, adding a touchdown on the year. He is aggressive, physical, and explosive, and his returner abilities will help him to become a difference maker for the 49ers right away.