49ers’ Draft Targets: 4 Hidden Gems Who Stole the Show at the NFL Combine
Kyle Posey, a seasoned analyst at Niners Nation, has been covering the 49ers since 2019. A former FCS wide receiver and high school football coach with over eight years of experience, his background in both football and accounting gives him a unique analytical approach to evaluating players.
The NFL Combine has lost some of its prestige as top prospects opt to skip key drills, choosing instead to showcase their skills at Pro Days. However, the Combine remains a proving ground for late-round hopefuls—those looking to boost their draft stock with elite athleticism and official measurements.
The biggest headline of the weekend was the 49ers’ blockbuster trade of Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. But beyond the trade frenzy, several college standouts emerged as potential fits for San Francisco. Here are four NFL Combine winners the 49ers should have on their radar:
CB Darien Porter – Iowa State
San Francisco is in need of a replacement for Charvarius Ward, and Darien Porter’s jaw-dropping athleticism makes him an intriguing candidate. At 6’3″ in cleats, Porter ran a blistering 4.3-second 40-yard dash and possesses the wingspan of an edge rusher.
Iowa State deployed Porter similarly to how the 49ers used Ward, forcing quarterbacks into low-percentage deep throws. Targeted just 17 times in 2024, Porter allowed only five completions, excelling in both zone coverage and run support. His versatility extends to special teams, where he logged 167 snaps and even blocked a punt. If he’s available in the third round, he could become a key defensive piece.
LB Nickolas Martin – Oklahoma State
The 49ers have a history of finding linebacker talent in the later rounds, and Nickolas Martin could be their next steal. The Oklahoma State product recorded the highest athleticism score at the Combine (84) and clocked a 4.53-second 40-yard dash while reaching an in-game speed of 22.3 mph.
At 5’11” and 221 pounds, Martin closely mirrors the size and playstyle of Dre Greenlaw and Dee Winters. His aggressive approach and elite blitzing ability make him a natural fit for San Francisco. In 2023, Martin registered over 100 tackles and earned an 84.4 pass-rush grade from PFF. If the 49ers are looking for a Day 3 linebacker with upside, Martin should be a priority.
RB Bhayshul Tuten – Virginia Tech
Andrew Pasquini of Niners Nation predicted Tuten as a potential 49ers target before the Combine, and the Virginia Tech running back did not disappoint. Weighing 209 pounds, Tuten posted a lightning-fast 4.32-second 40-yard dash with a 1.49-second 10-yard split—numbers that will surely catch Kyle Shanahan’s attention.
Tuten thrives in zone-blocking schemes and boasts elite yards-after-contact and elusiveness metrics. While he isn’t known for creating yardage on his own, his vision and acceleration make him a valuable asset. Additionally, his two career kickoff return touchdowns and pass protection skills only boost his stock. The 49ers are bound to draft a running back—it’s just a matter of when.
C Jared Wilson – Georgia
Wilson, the starting center for Georgia’s playoff team, showcased rare athleticism, reaching the third-highest top speed among offensive linemen over the past three years. His ability to reach the second level and dominate defenders in space is exactly what the 49ers look for in a lineman.
In 2024, Wilson allowed zero sacks and just one quarterback hit, proving his reliability in pass protection. With Jake Brendel potentially entering his final season in San Francisco, Wilson could be a Day 2 prospect worth grooming as his successor.
Final Thoughts
As the 49ers navigate an offseason filled with major roster moves, the NFL Combine revealed several under-the-radar prospects who could make an immediate impact. Whether it’s a speedy cornerback, a relentless linebacker, an explosive running back, or an athletic center, these four players could soon be donning the red and gold.
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