49ers to Draft USC Cornerback Jaylin Smith at No. 99 Overall

Los Angeles, California – The NFL draft season is heating up as mock drafts circulate, with NFL.com’s Chad Reuter projecting that the San Francisco 49ers will select USC cornerback Jaylin Smith with the 99th overall pick. This marks Smith as the only draft-eligible prospect from USC expected to be taken on Day 2 of the draft.

Smith, a native of California, joined the USC Trojans after a standout career at Bishop Alemany High School. He quickly made an impact during his freshman year, appearing in ten games and starting one at safety. Over the next two seasons, he solidified his reputation with 21 starts in 23 games, playing both nickel and safety positions.

In his senior season, Smith earned Defensive MVP honors during the Trojans’ Holiday Bowl victory over Louisville. He contributed significantly on the field, finishing the year with 59 tackles, four tackles for loss, and two interceptions across ten games.

USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, who recently joined the team, worked closely with Smith, emphasizing his versatility as a defensive back. During spring practice, Smith learned all secondary positions while recovering from an injury, eventually transitioning into a full-time outside cornerback role. Lynn praised Smith’s consistent performance and competitiveness throughout the season.

“Toughness, he’s super competitive,” Lynn stated. “Even if a ball is caught on him, he’s always right there. He tackles well; he can blitz, he does just about everything. Having him out there gives our defense an extra edge.”

Smith’s performance this past season markedly elevated his draft prospects. Former USC safety and assistant defensive backs coach Taylor Mays has watched Smith’s development over his collegiate career and believes there’s more to come. “Jaylin is a star in the making,” Mays said. “He’s matured and seen what he needs to do to succeed on and off the field. His athletic talent and dedication stand out.”

Having participated in the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, at the end of January, Smith continues to gain attention. He is set to showcase his skills alongside USC teammates running back Woody Marks and center Jonah Monheim at the NFL Scouting Combine from February 24 to March 3. Marks and Monheim were also highlighted for their impressive performances at the Senior Bowl.

Marks, who concluded his season with over 1,000 rushing yards, is expected to be a Day 3 pick, regarded for his pass-catching abilities. Meanwhile, Monheim demonstrated versatility along the offensive line and is projected to be one of the top centers in the draft.

As Jaylin Smith approaches the NFL Combine, his performance in practices and the 40-yard dash will be closely monitored, further determining his draft stock. Historically, the 49ers have selected former Trojans to enhance their roster, placing Smith in a favorable position moving into the draft.