Like in previous weeks, Drew and myself have been sharing our feelings on prospects who could help out the 49ers in the 2012 draft.
I want to start with one of my favorite CBs in the '12 draft crop.
Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
At 6'3 and 192, Kirkpatrick is a tackling machine. I love his athletic ability. He will be a true shutdown corner in the NFL. He fits the mold as a big shutdown, cover corner that any team would love to have.
Kirkpatrick is a high pick right at this moment, a very early first round pick.
Josh Chapmam, NT, Alabama
At 6'1 and 310 he would fit in with the 49ers front 7. Like Washington's Alameda Ta'amu, Chapman isn't a sack or tackling machine. He is just a big force in the middle.
At this moment, Chapman is the second best NT in the draft. Chapman is more likely a option if the 49ers finish with a .500 or above record, as Ta'amu is more of a high first rounder.
Nico Johnson, LB, Alabama
At 6'3 and 245 lbs, Johnson is a good size for a ILB spot. This is of course if Bowman doesn't pan out. Johnson hasn't played much due to the likes of former Alabama ILB Rolando McClain and current stars Dont'a Hightower & Courtney Upshaw.
Johnson has good potential to be a real good ILB. I don't expect Johnson to become a first round high pick, but I can see Johnson in the second round.
Check back later for more analysis and thoughts.