Originally posted by HearstFan:
49ers Draft Strategy -- It seems to me that the 49ers consistently draft players for year 2 planning -- meaning they see a roster issue that needs addressing over a 2 year span, so they draft with the expectation that if the player doesn't work out as a starter in year 1 -- and they don't really need him too -- he is developing and solves a projected roster issue in year 2.
They do expect immediate contributions from Round 1 and 2 players, but not immediate starting caliber dominance from them -- expect say a top 10 pick.
>That would explain the 2 TEs drafted and seldom used last year.
>Late round corners that seem to come on in year 2 etc.
>Draft OL depth and develop it
There is one position where coaching up really doesn't seem to be able to make a player a "top notch starter" -- yes, rotational, but not dominant -- DL. You can't really coach up burst and power -- so that would explain their DL emphasis when they have a chance in the top of draft order.
The only thing that leave to be concerned about is LT. Given their low draft position I don't think they see remaining tackles in Rnd 2-7 as even eventual starters. So each year they pass on a Rnd 1 tackle puts more stress on their future -- unless they are factoring in that they just accept LT is something so important you address it in Free Agency at a premium price when you need to.
I think that's fair to say but I also think this year they kind of played the middle ground which made it odd a bit.
Pearsall, Green and Puni are all 5 year players IIRC which means for the most part they shouldn't need a ton of development. Obviously the jump from college to NFL is giant regardless if you're in college for 3 years or 5+ but I do think they made a concerned effort to get more seasoned players who may be able to jump in earlier.
So I think it was more about giving themselves options whether Deebo(Pearsall) or guys they may not be sold on RG/RT(Puni) or corners outside of Ward and Lenoir(Green)
But it also protects them from if Deebo is traded after this season, Feliciano is retiring and Burford may not be good enough, Banks up for FA and Ward/Lenoir contracts are up in the air after this season iirc.
So I think it was a smart effort to give them options for this season but also protect themselves for next year like you said. Look forward to camp to see these competitions play out.
I would be guilty as well in the past with my Alex Smith takes, idk how many warnings and TOs I've raked up over the years lol
