The San Francisco 49ers improved their defense in the 2019 NFL Draft, adding edge rusher Nick Bosa to the mix with the second overall pick. Was this a strong choice for Kyle Shanahan and company?
In a match that felt like a formality, the San Francisco 49ers took Ohio State defensive end Nick Bosa with the second overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft. Bosa is considered by many to be the top prospect in this draft class and will undoubtedly be a welcomed addition in San Francisco.
The 49ers have spent a lot of draft capital in recent years on the defensive line. They have found some nice pieces on the interior, but still have an obvious need at the edge rusher position. Pairing Bosa with Dee Ford, who they acquired in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this offseason, takes care of that need.
Bosa should come in and be an immediate playmaker for the San Francisco 49ers. he has an ideal combination of power and speed on the edge that allows him to create havoc against the run and as a pass rusher. He is an absolute technician up front, showing ideal hand usage and consistently creating leverage with great pad level.
Bosa displays a quick first step, has a great pass rush repertoire and closes on the quarterback well. He is also an extremely reliable tackler in space. Bosa is without a doubt one of the safest prospects in the 2019 NFL Draft and also has real All-Pro potential down the line.
A smart and hard-nosed player who also has obvious physical talents, Bosa will make an immediate impact with the 49ers. He is a true three-down edge defender who can come in and immediately be the centerpiece of the 49ers’ defense. Go ahead and mark Bosa down as an early favorite for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
In this case, the obvious pick was the right one. Homerun selection for the San Francisco 49ers.
Grade: A