Jaden Dugger joins 49ers’ deep group of linebackers as fifth-round draft pick

The 49ers entered the 2026 NFL Draft already knowing a lot about their group of linebackers.And one day after trading away Dee Winters, the 49ers addressed that position on Day 3 of the draft.Now, they have another linebacker on their roster to evaluate and develop.The 49ers on Saturday selected linebacker Jaden Dugger of Louisiana in the fifth round with the No. 154 overall pick.He becomes the fourth defensive player the 49ers added within their first six draft picks. The 49ers have brought in edge Romello Height of Texas Tech, defensive tackle Gracen Halton of Oklahoma and cornerback Ephesians Prysock of Washington.Dugger (6-foot-5, 242 pounds) enters the competition for a roster spot or playing time. Dugger said he believes he has the versatility to play inside or outside linebacker.He is a former safety who appears to be comfortable dropping into coverage.Dugger registered 125 tackles at Louisiana with four sacks and 13 tackles for losses.Dugger can be expected to join the 49ers and compete at outside linebacker.The 49ers appear to have a solid group of linebackers with some of the roles well-defined.Middle linebacker Fred Warner has no physical...