Darnell Dockett is turning 34-years-old and missed all of last season due to injury. Justin Smith is turning 36-years-old and has seen his production dip in two straight seasons. Needless to say, the San Francisco 49ers could use some new blood at the defensive end position.
That is why the team has been linked to Oregon DE Arik Armstead in the upcoming NFL Draft. Armstead offers great length and agility, but Mike Renner of pro Football Focus believes he is one of the most overrated prospects in this year's draft.
"It seems as though many look at Armstead's measurables (6-foot-7, 292 pounds, 5.1-second 40-yard dash) and his position (3-4 defensive end) and can't foresee him becoming anything other than Calais Campbell," Renner wrote. "What has gotten overlooked for the most part, however, is that Campbell had as many sacks his sophomore season of college (10.5) as Armstead had his entire Oregon career.
"Defensive line is one of the positions where physical freaks can easily dominate in college with little to no technique. That is why it's concerning that Armstead produced well outside the upper echelon of defensive linemen. The Oregon defensive end graded out as our No. 20 interior linemen against power five schools, and posted middling numbers in run-stop percentage (7.1) and pass-rush productivity (6.0) for the season. Those are worrisome numbers for a potential top-15 pick."
San Fran holds the No. 15 overall and is projected to take Armstead by some. He would fill an immediate need and is considered a good value pick. However, Renner's summation is interesting to consider. Armstead's lack of pass-rush results is concerning, but is it worrisome enough to scare the 49ers off? The team could also look at cornerback, wide receiver and inside linebacker with their first round selection.
Niners fans, what do you think? Would Armstead be a good pick? Let us know in the comments section below.