USC Trojan outside linebacker Nick Perry has been a name tossed around a few times as a potential target for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2012 NFL draft. Many draft experts believe that the Niners should go after a wide receiver in the first round to help their offenses, but adding a player similar to Aldon Smith could be just as effective as no opposing quarterback would be safe.
SB Nation's latest mock draft, put together by Brad Wells, has the 49ers doing exactly that with the 30th overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft.
The 49ers saw firsthand against the Giants in the NFC Championship Game just how important it is to have a cadre of pass rushers. Perry is better suited as an outside rusher standing up than as a three-technique linemen, which means he will fit in well in Vic Fangio's 3-4 scheme.
San Francisco's defense carried them throughout the majority of the 2011 season and brought them all the way to the NFC Championship game and adding a talented pass rusher, especially since the NFL is a passing league, is always a smart move. Besides, the free agent class of wide receivers is very deep.
For more on the San Francisco 49ers, head to Niners Nation.