Ahead of the NFL Draft, NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah has unveiled an intriguing prediction in his final mock draft. Jeremiah projects the San Francisco 49ers to opt for Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy with the No. 31 overall pick.
Worthy’s name has gained familiarity thanks to his record-breaking performance at the NFL combine this year, clocking in a blistering 4.21 in the 40-yard dash. This feat immediately propelled him into discussions as a potential first-round selection, and Jeremiah now anticipates the 49ers to snag him as they approach their turn in the first round.
Speed is undoubtedly Worthy’s standout attribute, particularly evident in his explosive post-catch maneuvers. This agility translated into impressive production throughout his collegiate career, spanning three seasons.
Notably, he racked up 981 yards and 12 touchdowns as a freshman, culminating in a career tally of 197 receptions, 2,755 yards, and 26 touchdown catches. Additionally, Worthy showcased his versatility as a punt returner, boasting an average of nearly 14 yards per return over his college tenure.
The 49ers have been on the lookout for a swift wide receiver since Marquise Goodwin’s departure after the 2019 season. While their attempts with Danny Gray were hampered by a season-ending shoulder injury last year, Worthy emerges as a promising candidate to fill the void, armed with both speed and a refined route repertoire that spans all facets of the passing game.
However, concerns linger regarding Worthy’s ability to withstand the physical demands of the NFL, given his modest stature of 5-11 and 169 pounds as measured during his Pro Day. Nonetheless, his collegiate durability, having never missed a game, offers some reassurance.
Jeremiah’s selection of Worthy for the 49ers prompts speculation about the team’s future plans for Brandon Aiyuk. Whether it signals a potential trade or envisages a complementary partnership with Aiyuk, the fit appears logical, provided Worthy maintains his explosive impact in the passing game’s primary and intermediate tiers.
All of that being said, it will be interesting to see what the San Francisco 49ers decide to do in the NFL Draft when everything is set in stone.
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