The 49ers made us all wait for hours on Day 3. Their 135th overall pick was followed by the 215th, which the 49ers spent on USC interior offensive lineman Jarrett Kingston.
What should you know about Kingston?
Having quickly watched some of his film against Notre Dame and Utah (at right guard, and right tackle, respectively), he shows quickness off the ball. He fires his hands a bit too early, leaving him susceptible to using his leverage against him. However, he has top-tier strength and lower half movement, so when he stays locked on assignments, he can reclaim that advantage and drive. He can switch off on assignments vey well.
Given his strength and athleticism, you really want to see him pull and deliver punishment a lot more. He seems slightly hesitant to do that. When he gets locked in and drives, he can finish. But you want him to have that mentality consistently. He just looks like his waiting for someone to say, "Sure, pancake me!" That's not how it works. Go deal damage. Maybe that's intentional, given his short arms, to not over-extend himself, but it's frustrating at times on tape.
DRAFT GRADE: B
Overall, the selection is above average at this stage, and follows the principles that you should have in the late rounds, especially: draft high-upside athletes, or guys with immense production who pass the vibe check (Jauan Jennings).
The knock with Kingston, who played six years in college, is that Beaux Limmer of Arkansas is arguably a more well-rounded prospect with immediate center experience, in the SEC. He was taken by the Rams two picks later. Kingston's desire to throw his hands (with short arms) too early is worrisome, and is the one thing that can really get him beat in the NFL.
But if Kingston, who does show the strength and athleticism to anchor, and get out in space, can work on his hand timing, and be a bit more aggressive as a run blocker, he could be a steal.
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