NFL Media analyst Bucky Brooks went back a few years and created a list of the top 15 players from the loaded 2019 NFL Draft class. The San Francisco 49ers were well represented. Brooks states that he is "blown away" by the talent and depth of that group of players.
"This group features a collection of pass rushers, pass catchers, and playmakers who have made their mark on the league in swift fashion," Brooks wrote.
Pass rushers, pass catchers, and playmakers—San Francisco found players that fall into each category. Sitting at No. 2 on his list, right behind Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, is 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, who has turned out to be one of the best pass rushers in the league.
"The talented technician's polished maneuvers flummox opponents on the edges," Brooks shared. "After suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 of the 2020 campaign, Bosa returned in 2021 and promptly racked up 15.5 sacks (fourth-most in the league). He is a nightmare to block on passing downs due to his non-stop motor and giant toolbox. With few pass rushers possessing such a fruitful mix of instincts, skill, and savvy, it is time to give Bosa his flowers as one of the elite sack artists in the game today."
Bosa is ranked above Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders (6) and Brian Burns of the Carolina Panthers (10).
The next 49ers player on Brooks' list checks off the last two categories—pass catcher and playmaker. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel has proven to be both. He is the type of offensive star who can make the fan of any team tune in to see what he does next.
"The 49ers' top offensive weapon is a throwback," Brooks wrote. "Samuel has carved out a unique niche as a wing-back with explosive ability as a runner/receiver in San Francisco's electric offense. Although he has requested a trade from the Niners and didn't participate in voluntary OTAs, Samuel did report to mandatory minicamp this week. It is hard to imagine the team parting ways with a player who performs like a top-five receiver and running back."
Samuel finds himself listed above other star wideouts from the same draft class, like A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles (5) and DK Metcalf of the Seattle Seahawks (7).
Both Bosa and Samuel are entering the final year of their rookie deals and are eligible for contract extensions. While Samuel has expressed some frustration with the process, Bosa has been patient.
"I'm sure I'll be notified," Bosa told reporters when asked if he was interested in knowing when a deal might get done.
Bosa added, "I've just been focusing on getting better. I'll let my agent worry about that."
San Francisco drafted Bosa with the No. 2 overall pick and Samuel in the second round.
Just missing Brooks' top-15 is linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who is among the analyst's "tough cuts."