The San Francisco 49ers wrapped up their 2012 NFL Draft by selecting Virginia outside linebacker Cam Johnson in the seventh round. This follows the 49ers earlier decision to draft OLB Darius Fleming in the fifth round. This provides even more competition as the 49ers look to improve their pass rush depth behind Ahmad Brooks and Aldon Smith. It will be interesting to see the training camp battle and whether either rookie can climb past Parys Haralson on the depth chart. I don't think it is likely, but you never can tell.
Here is a quick scouting report:
Positives: ... Fires off the snap with a terrific first step, displays overall quickness in his game and plays with leverage. Fluid moving about the field, quick if asked to twist or stunt and displays solid change-of-direction ability. Rarely off his feet, smooth moving in every direction of the field and shows a short burst of speed in pursuit ... Nifty, agile lineman who can also drop off the line of scrimmage and play in space. Does not give up and works hard to be productive.
Negatives: More of a first-step lineman and rather easily disrupted by blocks. Lacks bulk and controlled by a single opponent or engulfed at the point of attack. Not a great pursuit lineman and cannot sustain his speed.
SI.com actually projected Johnson as a day two pick, so I'm curious what might have led to such a significant drop in his stock. Anybody have thoughts on where Johnson belongs among the pass rush prospects? He stands at 6'3 265 pounds, which seems to be solid size for the position. They have him down as a pass rush specialist, so maybe he and Fleming will duke it out for a roster spot. All the rookie have plenty of practice squad eligibility, so we'll see how it plays out.