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Ex-49ers GM Defends Controversial Draft Picks
30 Apr
Summary
- Former GM Scot McCloughan praised De'Zhaun Stribling's potential starter qualities.
- McCloughan believes Kaelon Black is a solid backup, not a starter.
- He preferred Stribling over other highly-rated receivers available later.
Former 49ers General Manager Scot McCloughan has voiced strong support for the team's recent draft selections, particularly wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, taken at pick No. 33. McCloughan, who previously served as the 49ers' top evaluator from 2005 to 2009, believes Stribling possesses the necessary attributes to become a starting NFL receiver and potentially an X-receiver like Mike Evans.
McCloughan lauded Stribling's combination of size, speed, and ball skills, stating he preferred Stribling over other highly-touted receivers like Omar Cooper Jr. and Denzel Boston who were available later in the draft. He noted Stribling's impressive performance on film, highlighting his blocking ability and playmaking against both cornerbacks and linebackers.
In contrast, McCloughan assigned a fifth-round grade to running back Kaelon Black, drafted at No. 90. While acknowledging Black's toughness and ability to gain yards after contact, McCloughan described him as a solid backup rather than a starter. He suggested the 49ers might have had opportunities to address other positions, such as offensive or defensive linemen, or a cornerback, before selecting Black.
