The challenge facing the 49ers in this week’s draft is how to make a stacked roster even better.
In four of the past five seasons, the Niners have been in the NFL’s final four - a run which has included two Super Bowl defeats to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
As Kyle Shanahan and company look to go one better in 2024, here’s what to look out for in their draft this week.
San Francisco 49ers draft picks
- No. 31 overall (first round)
- No. 63 overall (second round)
- No. 94 overall (third round)
- No. 124 overall (fourth round) (from Dallas)
- No. 132 overall (fourth round) (compensatory)
- No. 135 overall (fourth round)
- No. 176 overall (fifth round) (compensatory)
- No. 211 overall (sixth round) (compensatory)
- No. 215 overall (sixth round) (compensatory)
- No. 251 overall (seventh round)
Key Needs
Offensive tackle is a key position of need for the 49ers, with Trent Williams turning 36 this summer, while Colton McKivitz at right tackle could be upgraded. There is also a question mark over wide receiver, with Brandon Aiyuk’s future the subject of speculation as he seeks a bumper new contract, while Jauan Jennings is scheduled for free agency next year.
On the other side of the ball, another cornerback needs to be added to their secondary.
Predictions
Should they stay where they are, the Niners should look to grab a tackle in the first round, with the likes of Jordan Morgan or Roger Rosengarten both potentially available at 31.
A cornerback and receiver would be decent day two picks and in the later rounds, keep an eye on Luke McCaffrey - brother of current Niner Christian and son of former Niner Ed - who could be a good fit amid John Lynch’s comments that he ‘believes in bloodlines’ this week.
Alternatively, the 49ers could look to trade up. Thanks to their gaming of the compensatory pick game, they have 10 selections overall this year and will not be able to find ten slots for rookies on their 2024 roster, so there’s a case for using these picks as ammunition to move up.
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