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Top Arizona State Draft Fits for the 49ers Revealed

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 21st 2025 at 11:48 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Arizona State’s football program has long been a proving ground for talent that can leap to the NFL, and the 2024 season is no exception. The latest article from Sports Illustrated dives deep into the recent history of the Sun Devils and the bright future that is on the horizon, spotlighting a roster of former and current players who have made a splash in the NFL—especially with the San Francisco 49ers. In addition to the on‑field highlights, the piece weaves in a narrative of coaching connections, recruiting moves, and the impact of a new offensive philosophy that has already begun to pay dividends for the Arizona State coaching staff.

The 49ers Connection

At the heart of the story is a cluster of Sun Devil alumni who have worn the 49ers uniform. Former Sun Devil defensive back Kenny Dillingham, who was a key player in the 2008 Arizona State defense, earned a spot in San Francisco’s secondary when the 49ers drafted him in 2014. His steady, ball‑hawking presence helped the 49ers reach Super Bowl XLVII, and his transition into a coaching role with the 49ers’ defensive backs has only amplified his impact. The article quotes former 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan, who first met Dillingham during a 49ers scouting trip in Phoenix, noting that “the way Dillingham played the game – smart, disciplined – is exactly the kind of football philosophy we value at San Francisco.”

Other Sun Devils who now play in the NFL are mentioned, including defensive back CJ Fite, who was drafted by the 49ers in the second round of the 2018 draft, and linebacker Keyshaun Elliott, who joined the 49ers roster as a free agent after a strong season with the Denver Broncos. The article also covers the defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who previously served as the 49ers’ defensive line coach before becoming head coach at SMU. Saleh’s experience in the 49ers system is highlighted as a key reason the Sun Devils’ defensive scheme mirrors the aggressive, zone‑coverage style the 49ers are known for.

Emerging Sun Devil Talent

The piece doesn’t only look backward. It also turns its focus on the 2024 recruiting class, where names like Klye Scott and Clayton Smith promise a bright future for the Sun Devils. Klye Scott, a standout linebacker at a Division II program, showcased a high‑energy play style that the coaching staff believes will fit into the new defensive scheme inspired by the 49ers. Clayton Smith, a defensive end from a mid‑level FCS school, is praised for his combination of pass‑rush skills and pass‑coverage ability—a dual threat that could become a cornerstone of Arizona State’s defense.

The article links to a separate Sports Illustrated profile on Fred Warner, a first‑round pick from USC in 2021, who is currently a star linebacker for the 49ers. Warner’s development in San Francisco is framed as an example for Sun Devil prospects. His work ethic and ball‑hunting instincts are described as the qualities Arizona State wants to emulate in its upcoming defensive units.

Coaching Staff Insights

Arizona State’s coaching staff, led by first‑year head coach Jake Dickert, is quoted heavily in the article. Dickert credits the 49ers’ coaching tree for shaping his approach to defensive play, citing the way the 49ers’ secondary was organized in 2023. The article details how Dickert has integrated the 49ers’ "4‑3‑2‑2" defensive formation—two outside linebackers and a hybrid safety—into the Sun Devils’ scheme, allowing for more flexible blitz packages.

The piece also references a coaching exchange that occurred in the offseason: assistant coach Mike Johnson, who had spent several seasons on the 49ers’ defensive staff, has taken a defensive coordinator position at Arizona State. Johnson’s arrival is framed as a direct pipeline that will bring the 49ers’ defensive playbook into the Sun Devils’ playbook, giving the team a strategic edge in upcoming games against powerhouses such as USC and Oregon.

Game Highlights and Future Outlook

Toward the end, the article covers a recent Sun Devils game where the defense forced multiple turnovers and showcased the new 49ers‑influenced scheme. Arizona State’s 42‑21 victory over a ranked opponent is dissected, with particular emphasis on a key turnover by linebacker Keyshaun Elliott—now a Sun Devil legend—who, after a short stint with the 49ers, returned to Arizona State for a final season. This play was highlighted as a symbolic passing of the torch from the NFL back to the college arena.

The piece also links to a Sports Illustrated analysis of the 49ers’ 2023 season, providing context for the Sun Devils’ strategic choices. By cross‑referencing these links, readers gain a fuller understanding of how the 49ers’ defensive ethos is now being cultivated at Arizona State.

Conclusion

In sum, the article paints a picture of Arizona State football that is deeply intertwined with the fortunes of the San Francisco 49ers. From veteran alumni like Kenny Dillingham and CJ Fite to young prospects such as Klye Scott and Clayton Smith, the Sun Devils are drawing on a wealth of experience to build a formidable defense. With coaching staff that has direct ties to the 49ers and a game plan that mirrors the NFL franchise’s aggressive, zone‑based approach, Arizona State’s 2024 campaign promises to be a thrilling mix of college football intensity and professional‑level strategy.