Representatives from the San Francisco 49ers were on hand at Air Force's pro day on Monday, and they expressed interest in two linebackers who took part, according to the Houston Chronicle and NFL Draft Diamonds.
The first was Air Force linebacker Ryan Watson, who can sign with a team after his military commitment is complete in April.
The New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, and Cleveland Browns also expressed interest in Watson. He registered a career-high eight sacks to go along with his 37 combined tackles, 10 for a loss, and pass defensed as a senior in 2016, according to Sports Reference.
Yes, 2016.
Watson is two years removed from the game but was at an Arizona Cardinals minicamp in 2017. He was required to serve two years of active duty before receiving a "ready reserve" status, enabling him to join an NFL team.
Ryan Watson at Air Force Pro Day: 6-2, 7/8, 256, 4.65, 30-inch vertical, 9-8 broad jump, 26 reps bench press. Interest from Saints, Broncos, Panthers, 49ers, Browns. Military commitment complete in April and then eligible to sign with a team
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 12, 2019
Yesterday Pro Day
— NFL Draft Diamonds (@DraftDiamonds) March 12, 2019
Ryan Watson, Air Force
6-2 7/8
256
4.65
30in vertical
9'8" broad
26 reps of 225
Interest from Saints, Broncos, Panthers, 49ers, Browns
Military Commitment done in April and can sign with a team after
The second linebacker the 49ers expressed interest in is Brandon Payer, who played college football at Colorado State-Pueblo but took part in Air Force's pro day. He had two 100-plus-tackle seasons (2016-17) during his four years with the ThunderWolves.
Brandon Payer Colorado-State Pueblo LB at Air Force Pro Day: 6-2, 230, 10-7 broad jump, 19 reps, 37-inch vertical, 4.64 40-yard dash, 4.2 short shuttle. Saints, 49ers, Browns, Broncos, Panthers interes
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 12, 2019