San Francisco 49ers: Grades for every 2021 NFL Draft pick

CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA - JANUARY 29: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers (R) talks with general manager John Lynch during practice for Super Bowl LIV at the Greentree Practice Fields on the campus of the University of Miami on January 29, 2020 in Coral Gables, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) /

San Francisco 49ers 2021 NFL Draft grades: Round 3 (Two Picks)

Trey Sermon, RB (Round 3, 88th overall) – Grade: B-

Knee injuries hobbled the two most productive running backs on the 49ers last season. The position may be less valuable league-wide than it once was but adding Trey Sermon brings insurance. Not only is Sermon a great rotational piece, but he also brings a more rugged running style while still being able to make people miss in space. On the other hand, Sermon has to develop as a receiver.

Shanahan is able to run different concepts other than wide-zone with Sermon. Over the last few seasons, the 49ers have had fast running backs. Comparatively, San Francisco has lacked a player who has shown he can consistently be a weapon catching out of the backfield. If Sermon can progress as a receiver in the passing game, he can impact the offense this year in a big way.

Ambry Thomas, CB (Round 3, 102nd overall) – Grade: C+

The cornerback position was a huge need for the 49ers after losing Richard Sherman and only signing Jason Verrett to a one-year deal. Ambry Thomas is a good press-man corner blessed with raw athleticism. With the three corner positions potentially locked in, he could possibly see the field right away.

Thomas may have slipped to this point in the draft after opting-out in 2020. With that said, he has the physical tools to play inside or out at corner and could be a breakout performer in the preseason. The former Michigan standout filled a clear vacancy on the 49ers roster but drafting an edge player could’ve been impactful either here or with the selection used to nab Sermon.