The 49ers could find themselves in the market for a linebacker this offseason. Starting LB Azeez Al-Shaair is on track for unrestricted free agency, which could open a vacancy too large for one of their in-house options to fill. Given their success finding LBs in the draft, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they look to add some competition there should Al-Shaair walk, and Utah LB Mohamoud Diabate could fit the bill. He told Draft Network’s Justin Melo that the 49ers were among the teams that stood out in his Shrine Bowl meetings.
Diabate spent his first three college seasons at the University of Florida before transferring to Utah for his senior year. In 44 games he racked up 228 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, one interception, two pass breakups and four forced fumbles.
While he flashed some pass rushing ability, his athleticism really stands out on tape. He looks fluid in coverage and gets sideline to sideline – both keys for LBs in San Francisco’s defense.
Looking at versatile prospects with good traits is how the 49ers have had success in the later rounds before. Diabate could be another Day 2 or 3 find at LB that helps shape the dominant 49ers defense.
