The 49ers made a move to bolster their linebacking corps depth in the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting Jalen Graham out of Purdue University with the 255th overall pick. …
With a clear desire to add depth to the position, the 49ers will look to develop Graham and allow him to compete withfellow rookie Winters for a spot on the roster.Graham, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs in at 210 pounds, was a three-year starter at Purdue, playing both safety and linebacker during his time with the team. While he may lack ideal size for a linebacker, his quickness and versatility make him an intriguing prospect who could provide valuable depth for the 49ers.
In his final season at Purdue, Graham played in all 12 games, starting 11, and recorded 89 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 2 interceptions. He also earned All-Big Ten honorable mention honors for his efforts.
With the 49ers, Graham will be joining a talented linebacking corps led by Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw. However, injuries and depth concerns have been an issue for the team in recent years, and Graham's selection shows that the team is looking to address those concerns.
Overall, the selection of Jalen Graham in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft could prove to be a shrewd move for the 49ers. While he may not be an immediate starter, his versatility and potential make him an intriguing prospect who could provide valuable depth for the team at the linebacker position.