49ers Target Pass Rushers in NFL Draft

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NFL News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The San Francisco 49ers are prioritizing edge rushers in this year's NFL Draft after finishing last and sacks last season. They added a solid defensive end with their pick of Michael Williams a year ago. But now they need a true pass for a specialist to fit new defensive. Coordinator Raheem Morris' scheme. Mock-Trass from beat writer Matt Barrow's spotlight several college standouts who match the team's profile for quickness, length, and versatility. In the first round, Barrow's has Texas A&M's Cassie's Howell as a prime target around the 27th pick. Howell brings elite quickness, bend, and even coverage skills, making him a rare drop in that range, despite shorter arms. Other names like Akeem Messador from Miami and Zion Young from Missouri could also tempt them early. Meanwhile, for the second round, Michigan's High Sean Barham stands out as a chess piece

1:02with speed and aggression. He played inside linebacker in college, but projects well as an edge option in Morris' defense. Prospects like Malachi Lawrence from Central Florida round out that group, especially since the 49ers lack a third round choice. Later rounds bring developmental upside, such as Auburn's Kiran Crawford in the fourth, a former basketball player who's exploding onto the scene. Barrow's also flags Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods as a risky project. Not for round one, due to explosion and arm length issues, but maybe late. Round two if coaches can refine his power-based style. These targets aim to rebuild a disruptive front that collapses pockets and forces turnovers, giving the 49ers a fighting chance to climb the. Rankings Next Fall