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49ers trade back into 1st round to end Foster's fall

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The San Francisco 49ers have selected linebacker Reuben Foster out of Alabama with the 31st pick of the 2017 NFL Draft after acquiring the selection in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks.

The 49ers surrendered the 34th overall pick and the 111th overall selection (fourth round) to acquire a player who was once projected as a likely top-10 pick.

Foster's slide started at the scouting combine, where he was sent home after an altercation with hospital staff while reportedly waiting for medical testing.

It later emerged that Foster tested positive at the combine due to a dilute sample.

But it may be Foster's medical questions, including a lingering shoulder issue, that are the primary reason for his fall.

If Foster is healthy, the 49ers are getting a rare player with sideline-to-sideline range who can instantly transform their defense.

Reuben Foster Bio

Position: LB
School: Alabama
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-0
Weight: 229 lbs.

Strengths

  • Possesses speed and athleticism to cover sideline-to-sideline.
  • Heavy hitter, plays with a mean streak.
  • Adequate in pass coverage.
  • Standout contributor on special teams.

Weaknesses

  • Tends to lower head when making tackles, leaving him susceptible to head/neck injuries, personal foul penalties, and missed tackles.
  • Failed drug test at NFL combine (dilute sample). Also got sent home from combine after reportedly getting into altercation with hospital employee.
  • Didn't work out at Alabama's pro day while recovering from shoulder surgery.

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