The 2016 NFL Draft is still six months away, but that won't stop San Francisco 49ers fans from considering the possibilities. The 49ers are 2-5, and there is no indication this is getting any better. San Francisco currently holds the No. 9 pick in the draft, but that will change as the season moves along. The team seems to have a strong chance at a top ten pick, but nine more games means plenty can change.
ESPN's Todd McShay released his latest big board, ranking out the Top 32 players projected to be in this year's draft. This will change as some might return to school, and of course, and of course, the rest of the season and the draft process will impact this. This is not a mock draft, but rather, McShay's look at who he thinks are the best players in the draft. Team draft needs could drop a high-ranked player, or boost a low-ranked players.
The top of the board is defense-heavy, with four defensive players at the top. They include Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa, Ole Miss defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche, Florida cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III, and Florida State safety Jalen Ramsey. That is followed by a pair of offensive players, including Ole Miss offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil and Cal quarterback Jared Goff.
A lot will change over the next six months for the 49ers in terms of personnel. Colin Kaepernick may or may not be around. Anthony Davis may or may not be around. On defense, the line could end up moving on from Glenn Dorsey, and the pass rush will need infusions of talent. The secondary is a tougher one to figure out, but the 49ers could end up in a best player available type of mentality.
I can't list out the entire big board, but the top ten rounds out with Alabama DT Jarran Reed, Notre Dame OLB Jaylon Smith, Notre Dame OT Ronnie Stanley, and Oregon DE DeForest Buckner.