Who experts predict 49ers to pick No. 3 in 2021 NFL Draft originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
It all comes down to this.
The 2021 NFL Draft finally is here. Ever since the 49ers made their move up from the No. 12 pick to No. 3, fans have been on pins and needles waiting to see what their favorite team will do.
Will Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch go with Mac Jones, Justin Fields or Trey Lance?
RELATED: Why 49ers should avoid these three QBs with No. 3 pick
We soon will find out. Here's how the experts predict the 49ers' top pick to go.
Josh Schrock, NBC Sports Bay Area: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
Why: Last time, I went against the grain with Justin Fields, but it really does feel like Mac Jones is going to be the pick. He's an incredibly accurate passer who throws with timing, anticipation and has a pretty deep ball.
It might not be the sexy pick, but it'll work.
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Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
Why: I'm going to stick with Jones here, though there continues to be considerable buzz around the Niners' interest in Trey Lance.
Todd McShay, ESPN: Trey Lance, QB, North Dakota State
Why: Lance has a huge arm and the tools to develop into an excellent NFL starter. He has only 17 career starts, all at the FCS level, but he'd have a chance to learn and develop behind Jimmy Garoppolo for a year or two before taking over.
Dane Brugler, The Athletic: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
Why: Trey Lance was the name that popped into my head the moment the 49ers acquired this pick from the Dolphins last month. He’s the perfect fit for San Francisco. And there is absolutely still a chance he could be the pick here. But I am leaning toward Jones because I’m doing this mock draft based on what I’m hearing, not what I think they should do.
Danny Kelly, The Ringer: Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
Why: Even though I’ve got both Justin Fields and Trey Lance ranked higher on my board, it’s tough to ignore the overwhelming number of reports linking San Francisco to Jones. He possesses the accuracy and quick-processing skills to expertly run Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
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