At long last, the 49ers have picked up a defensive end.
It’s the position that was maybe the most glaring need, along with offensive tackle. San Francisco has yet to pick up a tackle, but with pick No. 173, they drafted George defensive ned Robert Beal Jr.
Here’s what he looks like as an athlete:
Beal was a rotational defensive end with clear athletic upside. He had 10.0 sacks in four seasons (and a covid year he didn’t play) along with 72 tackles, including 11.5 for a loss and two forced fumbles.
He’s seen as something of a project player, but he’s got a frame that sort of fits that Charles Omenihu/Arden Key mold of player that the 49ers have lost over the last couple years. If anyone can get production out of a prospect like that, it’s Kris Kocurek.
