San Francisco 49ers could have unearthed a hidden gem in 2024 NFL Draft at their local pro day

The San Francisco 49ers' local pro day was intriguing in large part because of the presence of Terrell Owens' son, Terique Owens, and 2021 third-round pick Kellen Mond serving as the quarterback.

Mond won't become a 49er, having signed with the New Orleans Saints soon after, and it remains to be seen what kind of impression Owens made on San Francisco as he looks to follow in his father's footsteps.

But one player who evidently has caught their eye is USC running back Austin Jones.

Per Justin Melo of The Draft Network, Jones has received interest from the 49ers following his attendance at the local pro day.

The Stanford transfer averaged 5.4 yards per carry across two seasons with the Trojans. Additionally, he averaged 9.7 yards per reception for USC.

Over the course of his time in college, Jones racked up 2,337 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns on the ground. As a receiver, he had 901 yards and three touchdowns.

Given his success in delivering efficient production in both the run and the pass game, the 49ers' interest is unsurprising.

But they may well have competition for his services, with Jones also reportedly interesting the Raiders and Chargers following his attendance at their respective pro days.

Whether it's a draft pick or an undrafted free agent signing, it's rare for the 49ers under Kyle Shanahan to leave a draft without a running back. Jones appears to be in the conversation to be that running back this year.