San Francisco 49ers first-time general manager John Lynch made headlines when he landed two of the top-3 players on his board in Round 1 of the NFL draft. After selecting Stanford defensive lineman Solomon Thomas third-overall, Lynch traded up three spots back into the first round for Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster at No. 31.

Foster was initially considered a top-10 prospect before falling so dramatically. He was Pro Football Focus’ top-ranked college linebacker in 2016, matching the dominance he showed on tape nearly every Saturday.

With 68 stops, the most in the SEC, Foster is what the 49ers needed after fielding the worst run defense in franchise history last season. On the other hand, there are reasons the best linebacker in college football fell to 31.

Foster’s problematic right shoulder required postseason surgery to repair a damaged labrum and rotator cuff. Shortly before the draft, news broke that some teams felt Foster’s shoulder required another surgery in order to fully recover. The 49ers’ medical staff didn’t believe any additional procedures were needed. There were also off-the-field concerns after Foster was sent home from the scouting combine.

Foster’s production is undeniable. The Butkus Award winner, given to college football’s top linebacker, finished last season with 115 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and five sacks.

Foster when medically cleared will compete for the weak-side linebacker spot next to NaVorro Bowman. The rookie will battle free agent acquisition and former Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith for the starting job.

Foster has only participated in individual drills during the offseason program, but 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan expects him to be a full participant at the start of training camp in late July.