Fourth in a series looking at potential candidates for the 49ers’ first-round selection when they draft No. 9 overall on April 26:
49ers’ draft prospect: Tremaine Edmunds
College: Virginia Tech
Position: Linebacker
Height/Weight: 6-foot-5, 254 pounds
Why he fits: The 49ers need as many dynamic play-makers as possible for a blossoming defense, especially with Reuben Foster’s career in legal jeopardy. Edmunds, who turns 20 on May 2, is touted by most draft analysts as one of the top two linebackers with Georgia’s Roquan Smith. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh can take advantage of Edmunds’ versatility to line up at different spots.
Why he doesn’t: The 49ers, contrary to widespread assumptions, are not desperate for a middle linebacker. They haven’t cut Foster despite felony domestic-violence and weapons charges, so that could lead one to believe they’re counting on him to play in some capacity and do so alongside Malcolm Smith, Brock Coyle and Korey Toomer.
Scouting report: Tall, rangy explosive athlete with the potential to get bigger, Edmunds is considered the top athlete among all linebackers available. Had 32.5 tackles for losses in his sophomore and junior years to go with 10 sacks although his pass rushing duties weren’t substantial. Good bloodlines. Father Ferrell Edmunds was a two-time Pro Bowl tight end with Miami in 1989-90. Older brother Trey was a college running back and younger brother Terrell is a safety at Virginia Tech.
Quotable: “My length, my speed, my ability to play out in space. I just feel like I can match up. I can do different things. I don’t limit myself so I can perfect my craft at whatever position it is. Whatever position they ask me to play, I’ll be fine,” Edmunds responding to a reporter’s question at the NFL scouting combine about what sets him apart.
