Georgia Tech’s Shaq Mason to Pats, DeAndre Smelter to Niners

On consecutive picks late in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Georgia Tech teammates Shaq Mason and DeAndre Smelter go to the New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers respectively.

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Mason and Smelter played integral roles for a Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football team that won the Coastal Division and the Orange Bowl over Mississippi State in 2014.

Along with safety Isaiah Johnson, Mason and Smelter were expected to be drafted on day three.  Mason looks to compete in a usually talented New England offensive line.  In general, if New England selects you will play above your potential. The GT C anchored an outstanding run blocking unit for Paul Johnson’s triple option attack.  If Mason can improve in pass protection, he could be a focal point in the New England offensive line for many years to come.

Smelter is a great addition for the San Francisco 49ers receiving corps.  While I do believe that the Niners reached way up to select Smelter, particularly since he is coming off injury, he can bring a physical presence to a Niners receiving corps long lacking in that department.  His toughness will be important as he now has to handle Colin Kaepernick fireballs being hurled in his direction.  If he can pick up the route trees easily from the 49ers playbook, I certainly envision Smelter really helping the 49ers offense as he already is an impressive run blocker.  Jim Tomsula gets a great player in Smelter as he looks to transition the 49ers offense after the departures of RB Frank Gore and WR Michael Crabtree.

I was wondering when Tech players would come off the board. These are good value picks for both New England and San Francisco.  I see both of these guys earning significant playing time next season for their respective NFL teams.