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The 49ers decided to add some running back depth with their fourth round pick (118 overall) as they added Oklahoma State running back Kendall Hunter. While Frank Gore is in place as the starter, the team is not quite sure what it has in Anthony Dixon. Hunter is a bit of a little guy at 5'7 and I'd imagine that had something to do with him sliding down into the fourth round because he seems like a very solid running back. The folks at Big Cat Country put together this scouting report late last month:
PROS: Has good bulk for his frame despite being short. Eludes defenders well in the open field and is very shifty. Tough to bring down due to his natural leverage advantage. Shows good vision rushing with the football. Helped himself out at the Senior Bowl by showing excellent technique and work in blocking drills. Patient runner that lets his blocks set up, and when utilized can make plays out of the backfield as a receiver.
CONS: Will get knocked for his lack of height and classified as "small". While very productive, doesn't break a lot of long runs and isn't really a homerun threat. Likely limited to being a third down back and change of pace guy at the next level. Doesn't offer much on the goal line. Despite setting up his blocks, he tends to dance too often and will need to work on getting upfield.
For informational purposes, here are the remaining 49ers picks:
1. Sixth round, No. 9 (174th overall)
2. Sixth round, No. 25 (190th overall, from Seattle for DT Kentwan Balmer)
3. Seventh round, No. 8 (210th overall)
4. Seventh round, No. 30 (230th overall, from Detroit for QB Shaun Hill) (Jets original pick in the round)
5. Seventh round, No. 38 (238th overall, compensatory)
6. Seventh round, No. 49 (249th overall, compensatory)
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