
Rumors like this should often be taken with a grain of salt but NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo reported something that would have changed the 2017 landscape. Garafolo reports that former 49ers head coach Chip Kelly wanted to draft Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott. General Manager Trent Baalke declined his request.
One of the final straws for Baalke, yes. https://t.co/8C8xLLD2xo
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 2, 2017
Prescott was ultimately selected by the Cowboys with the 37th pick in the 4th round. (And this is why I love compensatory picks!). Two picks earlier the 49ers took LSU corner Rashard Robinson who finished this season with 28 tackles and 1 interception on limited playing time. This report comes as no surprise really as Baalke assembled one of the worst rosters in the NFL during his time in San Fran.
Of course, no one can accurately predict what would have happened if Dak wound up with Chip Kelly. I think it’s safe to assume Prescott found the right home with a running game, terrific play caller Scott Linehan, and the league’s best offensive line.