Meet the 49ers’ 2024 NFL Draft class: Grades for all 6 picks

Here we’ll look at the San Francisco 49ers’ 2024 NFL Draft class and provide our grades for all of their 6 draft picks.

Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida

Grade: B

Sure, wide receiver wasn’t the most critical need for the 49ers. Still, it was a gap they looked to fill during this draft. Pearsall, taken with the 31st pick, may not have the highest potential among the receivers available. However, his well-rounded game is hard to fault. He’s an adept route runner and a solid athlete. He can potentially emerge as an excellent second option at wide receiver.

Renardo Green, CB, Florida State

Grade: B

The choice of Green was somewhat surprising, as the 49ers have historically not focused on cornerbacks early in the draft. Although Renardo Green doesn’t boast exceptional physical traits, his performance against top talent like LSU’s Malik Nabers (the No. 6 overall pick) and his 14 pass breakups last season speak volumes about his coverage skills. Sure, he needs to ensure his aggressive play doesn’t lead to penalties. However, he has the potential to become a top starting cornerback and could secure a starting role in his first year.

Dominick Puni, OL, Kansas

Grade: B

Addressing the offensive line was a necessity for the 49ers. They managed to do so by trading up in the third round to select Puni. By waiting, they landed a versatile lineman capable of playing both guard and tackle. Those are roles he filled during his time at Kansas. Puni is poised to compete for starting positions at right guard and right tackle and offers valuable depth as he develops within the team’s system.

Malik Mustapha, S, Wake Forest

Grade: A

Malik Mustapha is an exciting selection for the 49ers. They can afford to ease him into their system given their current roster. As a strong safety, Mustapha is known for his aggressive tackling and ability to stop runners in their tracks. Yes, he’ll find his niche in the 49ers’ secondary. Aside from that, he’s expected to make an immediate impact on special teams and has the makings of a future starter.

Isaac Guerendo, RB, Louisville

Grade: C

The decision to trade up and select Isaac Guerendo at No. 129 overall comes with some reservations. This is primarily due to the relatively high cost and the uncertain value of drafting a running back this early. This is especially true given the 49ers’ history of finding backfield talent in later rounds or among undrafted free agents. Guerendo’s top-tier speed and resilience are commendable. However, his limited college playtime and injury history raise concerns about his durability and role in an already crowded backfield.

Jacob Cowing, WR, Arizona

Grade: C

Opting for another receiver indicates the 49ers might be planning for future uncertainties within their receiver corps. Jacob Cowing’s speed and ability to break away from defenders are notable. However, his smaller stature might confine him to slot receiver duties. His extensive experience on short and intermediate routes could help him find a role. That said, he faces stiff competition for playing time. This is particularly true if Jauan Jennings remains with the team beyond this season.

Looking Ahead

In conclusion, the 49ers’ 2024 NFL Draft class represents a blend of strategic acquisitions aimed at bolstering both immediate and future prospects. Sure, some picks like Mustapha were clear standouts with the potential to make an instant impact. That said, others like Guerendo and Cowing pose some risk due to either high costs or uncertain roles.

Overall, the 49ers have managed to address key areas while also taking calculated gambles on talent that could elevate their team dynamics. The true success of this draft class will ultimately be measured by how these players develop and integrate into the system, contributing to the team’s aspirations in the coming seasons.