
In an NFL landscape where standout names become household staples, Upton Stout is one to remember. Currently lighting up conversations in the San Francisco 49ers camp, Stout has the potential to shake up the roster. With a promising debut lined up, the rookie might just be the key player fans have been waiting for.
Stout, eyeing a starting role at nickel cornerback, is already making waves with his performances. "Buzz about Stout coming out of 49ers camp grew steadily all summer," notes The Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue. Standing 5-foot-8 and weighing 180 pounds, Stout's presence on the field defies his physical size, with an NFC executive praising his quickness, athleticism, and fierce competitiveness.
“Quick. Athletic. Instinctive in coverage and aggressive in run support. Plays bigger than his size suggests due to wiry strength and consistent toughness. Above all, he’s a fierce competitor.”
Known officially as Upton Stout III, he was picked in the third round by the 49ers. Stout's journey began in Houston, continued at North Texas, and culminated at Western Kentucky, where he earned first-team FCS All-American honors. His college career was marked by a memorable interception returned for a touchdown in his debut game at WKU and an impressive 4 picks in his first season.
Stout considered transferring after an injury-struck 2023 but decided to stay at WKU, where he wrapped up his college tenure with 7.5 tackles for loss and another interception. At the NFL Combine, his athleticism was on full display with a 4.44-second 40-yard dash and a 37.5-inch vertical leap.
As the 2025 season approaches, Stout is likely to secure the inside cornerback position, while Renardo Green and Deommodore Lenoir take on the outside. His trajectory suggests a long and fruitful NFL career, reflecting the grit and determination that has characterized his journey thus far.
The 49ers have high hopes for Stout, and fans should get used to hearing his name – it's one they're unlikely to forget as his career unfolds.