Niners Nation
The 49ers have leaned on its rookie class more than they initially planned, but the first year players have not disappointed.
The 49ers had a first-round pick in the 2024 draft for the first time in years. This draft class is imperative for the 49ers to maintain winning with cheap and young talent while the team prepares to reward other deserving players on the roster. Usually, the 49ers let their rookies sit behind established veterans to develop, but this season, they are playing and providing encouraging early returns.
Which rookie has impressed you the most in 2024?
Round 1 - 31st Overall - Ricky Pearsall, WR
The former Florida receiver has dealt with a lot before stepping on the field against the Chiefs in Week 7. After dealing with two injuries during training camp, Pearsall survived a gunshot wound to the chest. Thankfully, Pearsall was safe after the incident, but getting on the field was a miracle.
Through two games, Pearsall has turned nine targets into seven receptions for 59 yards and added a 39 yard-run on Sunday night. With the injuries to the 49ers receivers, Pearsall figures to see an expanded role down the stretch.
Round 2 - 64th Overall - Renardo Green, CB
Green has played in six games for the 49ers and is the highest-graded secondary member in terms of coverage, with a 79.1 grade. On 133 coverage snaps, Green has been targeted 17 times, allowing eight receptions for 110 yards, and notched an interception.
With Deommodore Lenoir kicking inside on obvious passing downs, Green will have more opportunities to develop and continue his fine play.
Round 3 - 86th Overall - Dominick Puni, RG
The 49ers offensive line instantly upgraded by starting Puni at right guard. Puni was a brick wall in pass protection during his time at Kansas, and that has continued with Puni (70.0) being graded as the second-best pass protector behind Trent Williams (85.9).
Over 535 snaps, Puni hasn’t allowed a sack or QB hit. Puni has improved as the season has gone along as a run-blocker. Currently, Puni has a run-block grade of 73.3, with a 76.1 overall grade. This is a home run pick.
Round 4 - 124th Overall- Malik Mustapha, S
The safety from Wake Forest has lived up to his reputation as a hitter. Mustapha plays fast and gets downhill, which has led to four defensive stops in his 299 snaps. Over 125 run defense snaps, Mustapha is graded as a 70.2 run defender.
In coverage, Mustapha has surprised. In 173 coverage snaps, Mustapha has allowed four receptions on 11 targets for 18 yards with an interception and 2 PBUs. One area of improvement for the young safety will be the tackling department. Mustapha has missed 19.4 percent of his tackles (seven). Still, Mustapha has been a find in the fourth round.
Round 4 - 129th Overall - Isaac Guerendo, RB
The Lousiville running back shined on Sunday night, filling in for the banged-up Jordan Mason, and leads the...
