49ers Draft: Speed & Explosiveness Over Size

0:00You're listening to NFL News Today, subscribe now for fast daily updates on your team. The San Francisco 49ers have plenty of athletic defensive tackle options in this year's NFL draft class if they want a fresh pass rusher. The team recently chose not to tender restricted free agent Kalea Davis, signaling that new defensive coordinator Rahim Morris is shaping their plans. Davis was undersized compared to typical prospects, but Morris has a track record of targeting quick explosive players over big bodies. Under Morris' watch with the Falcons and Rams, they drafted three standout defensive tackles who bucked traditional size norms. Rook Orhoro went early in the second round last year at 6'4 and 294 pounds, with elite arm length and jumps. Brandon Dorless followed in the fourth at 6'3 and 283 pounds, boasting top speed and wing span. Shelby Turner, picked with the Rams, was even smaller at 6'2 and under 300 pounds, but

1:00shown in agility drills. Fans and analysts see this as a shift toward valuing speed and explosiveness over raw size for the 49ers line. Morris prioritizes arm length, wing span, sub-five second 40 yard dashes, and strong jumps from the combine. This approach could help replace aging or inconsistent rushers, boosting the edge players by creating interior chaos. Having combine results narrowed the field to a few key names fitting the mold. Caleb Banks from Florida stands out as a potential 27th overall pick, with dominant tape, despite limited play. Day three options include, Penn State's Zane Durant, a quick rotational disruptor similar to Kevin Gibbons, plus Clemson's Demonte Capehart and Kentucky's David Gustaf for depth. At the 49ers sign of veteran like John Franklin Myers in Free Agency, it might mean they're not sold on this draft class at the position. Keep an eye on how Morris' preferences play out as the draft nears. Support for this Dean and episode comes from our sponsor, a pillow that plays your sound

2:03quietly, comfortably, effortlessly, built for nighttime listening, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.