UCLA linebacker Myles Jack has long been considered a prime candidate to end up with the 49ers at the No. 7 overall pick.
But that could irreversibly change on Tuesday during his showcase for coaches, general mangers and scouts representing all 32 teams. Jack reportedly was fully cleared last week after sustaining a torn meniscus, which ended his final season at UCLA on Sept. 19. He is scheduled to take part in UCLA's pro day.
The ultra-versatile Jack could solidify a draft position ahead of the 49ers’ slot, as long as his physical condition checks out. The knee injury was expected to keep him sidelined four to six months, but he was expected to make a full recovery.
About the only other question with Jack is where teams plan to play him.
“I’ve heard safety, mike (middle linebacker), sam (strong side), will (weak side), inside backer,” Jack said two weeks ago at the NFL Scouting Combine. “Some teams joked about running back. I don’t think they were serious about that, but I’ve heard it all pretty much in the back seven.”
Jack (6 foot 1, 245 pounds) racked up 178 tackles, 15 for losses, and four interceptions in 29 college games. He also lined up at running back for the Bruins, carrying 68 times for 387 yards and 11 touchdowns.
About the only thing Jack did not do at UCLA was rush the passer. He recorded just one sack during his college career.
“My role at UCLA was they really used me off the ball in coverage, running and chasing things down,” Jack said. “I’ve been working on my pass rush since I’ve been there. We practiced it at UCLA. . . I feel like I’m very capable of doing it. Obviously, I didn’t show it much on film, but I’m capable of doing it.”
Ultimately, the team that selects Jack will be getting someone projected as the best all-around player in the draft. How and where he is used in the NFL, however, remains anyone’s guess.
“I see myself as a football player,” Jack said. “I want the teams to decide for themselves. I feel like I can play any position. Me, personally, I like being off the ball as a mike, will, sam. I think I could play strong safety as kind of a Kam Chancellor type of role. I feel like I could get the job done there.”
