Watch Lynch, Shanahan's emotional draft call to Drake Jackson

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Drake Jackson heard his phone ring and had no idea his life was going to change forever. 

On the other end of the line was 49ers general manager John Lynch, ready to personally congratulate the USC defensive end after San Francisco used its first selection of the 2022 NFL Draft to pick Jackson at No. 61 overall on Friday. 

“Welcome to the Niners, buddy,” Lynch said. “You excited?”

“Yes, sir,” Jackson replied. “I’ve been waiting 21 years for this.” 

For the sixth time in eight years, San Francisco prioritized the defensive front with its first draft pick on Friday, adding depth to its already-dominant D-Line. 

Oh, also on the call? Coach Kyle Shanahan, or as Jackson said, “Coach Shan." 

Jackson couldn’t hide his excitement as he joked he would fly from Vegas to Santa Clara in “two seconds." 

And Shanahan was equally as excited as his new 21-year-old edge rusher. 

“Well, it’s been a long wait for us to make a pick as I know it’s been for you,” Shanahan said. “We finally got here so congrats man, we’re pumped.” 

At USC, Jackson played in 27 games and recorded 103 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks and two interceptions in his tenure as a Trojan. 

And the icing on the cake was when owner Jed York hopped on the call and shared a few words with Jackson. 

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The phone call was short and sweet, but nothing short of special. 

And while the celebrations continue over NFL Draft weekend, Jackson can’t wait to be in the Bay and get straight to work. 

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