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NFL.com is running a series grading the 2016 draft class for every team, broken down by division. Bucky Brooks graded the NFC West, and the San Francisco 49ers scored a solid B. It matched the Seattle Seahawks, and both were ahead of the Los Angeles Rams (C-) and Arizona Cardinals (D).
Brooks was complimentary of the 49ers 2016 class, saying, “The 49ers' rookie class could become the foundation of the team's resurrection.” He identified the same players 49ers fans generally would in DeForest Buckner, Joshua Garnett, and Rashard Robinson.
The strong play of 5th round pick Ronald Blair in limited opportunities escaped Brooks notice. Blair recorded 11 tackles and 3 sacks while playing 27 percent of the 49ers defensive snaps.
It’s always interesting to get outsider opinions on the 49ers roster, particularly when grouped with evaluations of every other team in the NFL. Only a handful of teams’ rookies received higher grades. It’s only one opinion, but positive reviews for anything the 49ers have done over the last few offseasons are always a welcome change.