2020 NFL Draft: 5 First-round candidates for the 49ers

C.J. Henderson, Florida Gators. (Getty Images)
C.J. Henderson, Florida Gators. (Getty Images) /
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MADISON, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 23: Brycen Hopkins #89 of the Purdue Boilermakers celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on November 23, 2019 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
MADISON, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 23: Brycen Hopkins #89 of the Purdue Boilermakers celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on November 23, 2019 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Brycen Hopkins

A master of disguise as a play-caller, Shanahan would surely welcome having a second legitimate pass-catching threat at the tight end position to give him more flexibility in 21 and 22 personnel.

That is what Hopkins offers. He will enter the draft on the back of his best collegiate season, having caught 61 passes for 830 yards and seven touchdowns.

A well-refined route-runner for his position, the 6-foot-4, 241-pound Hopkins can create mismatches against linebackers with his athleticism. He also boasts the flexibility to operate almost as an extra wide receiver in a big slot role.

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Definite improvements in his blocking would need to be made for him to be considered an in-line player. However, if he makes necessary strides in that area,  Hopkins is a player who can provide Jimmy Garoppolo with another intriguing option in the passing game.