Former Tennessee running back Jalen Hurd gets drafted by the 49ers in the third round

After leaving Tennessee for Baylor and changing positions, Jalen Hurd has landed in the NFL. The San Fransisco 49ers took Hurd at the top of the third round on Friday night.

Hurd famously left the Vols in the middle of the 2016 season, citing problems with how he was being used in the offense. He had the opportunity to head to the NFL after that season, but he ended up seeking a transfer and a position change.

Baylor ended up being his final destination, where he played receiver. In one season with the Bears, Hurd totaled 69 catches for 946 yards and four touchdowns. He added another 200 yards on the ground.

At 6-4, 226 pounds, Hurd’s frame was certainly cut out to play the receiver position. However, with just one year of experience, it will be interesting to see how Kyle Shanahan incorporates him early on.

Two years removed from his departure from Knoxville, it’s tough to argue with the former five-star prospect’s decision to leave, as well as his decision to change positions. Would he have gone this high as a running back? Maybe. But he may have just bought himself a little more time in the league by become a pass catcher.