2021 NFL Draft: 3 team fits for speedster cornerback Eric Stokes

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers will almost certainly be cornerback shopping at some point in the draft, given every player at the position who took a defensive snap for them in 2020 is scheduled to be a free agent.

Of that group, the one who will almost certainly be back is restricted free agent Emmanuel Moseley. Beyond him, the Niners are likely to be in need of significant reinforcements in the secondary, and Stokes stands as one of the most exciting fits for them in the draft.

A very zone-heavy team under Robert Saleh, substantial changes do not seem likely under his replacement as defensive coordinator, DeMeco Ryans.

The 49ers should, therefore, value his read-and-react ability, which has helped him make consistent plays on the ball in zone, extremely highly. His proficiency in transitioning out of his backpedal will also appeal to a team that has regularly played large amounts of off coverage.

Under head coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers have not had an outside corner with the speed Stokes has at his disposal. His ability to stay tight downfield and recover separation, combined with his often physical approach to coverage and skills at the catch point, should help the Niners feel comfortable about playing him on an island. Expect Stokes to be in the mix for San Francisco in the second round or if they trade back from pick 12.