The 2011 NFL draft came down to the seventh pick and the San Francisco 49ers were on the clock. My money was on QB Blaine Gabbert as the pick but I was wrong. The 49ers decided to stick to defense and selected Missouri DE Aldon Smith.
NFL Draft Grades: 49ers Fans Aren’t Sure What They Have In Aldon Smith
49ers fans aren’t quite sure what they have in Smith. I suppose the grade would be incomplete. Via Niners Nation:
I have to say in a way I’m relieved that it wasn’t Blaine Gabbert, who I feel is the second-coming of Alex Smith, maybe worse. Aldon Smith (who interestingly enough has the name A. Smith) was a good player and should get into the 3rd down pass rush rotation immediately, but I wonder if he can stand up and shed, slide down the line, make plays in the run game, and most importantly, can he cover?
The potential is there with Smith, there’s no doubt about that. But there’s just not a ton of game tape to go on. Plus, Smith is coming off of a broken leg. It’s an interesting pick and smells like a boom or bust pick.
For now, 49ers fans aren’t sure how to grade their pick.
Check out Niners Nation for more reaction to Aldon Smith in San Francisco.
The first round of the 2011 NFL draft is in the books. Check out SB Nation’s recap of first round draft picks, NFL draft grades and our round 2 mock draft as we prepare for another day of NFL draft festivities. Also be sure to check out SB Nation’s NFL draft hub and Mocking The Draft to stay caught up on all things NFL draft.
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