Kyle Shanahan has history of bold draft choices

Posted By on April 10, 2020

Kyle Shanahan prefers a type.

He looks for certain specific traits in quarterbacks. Jimmy Garoppolo, the 49ers’ current quarterback, may or may not have those traits, although he’s a good, winning quarterback.

Could Shanahan have his eye on another quarterback, someone in the upcoming draft? Someone unexpected?

Remember, Shanahan wanted Kirk Cousins in 2012 when his team’s owner, Dan Snyder, insisted the Redskins draft Robert Griffin III. Shanahan did not want Griffin, so he insisted the Redskins also draft Cousins in the fourth round. Shanahan was a bold 32-year-old at the time. And he was right. Cousins became the far superior quarterback.

Shanahan also wanted C.J. Beathard in 2017 and passed on Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson. Wrong choice, but bold. Shanahan isn’t afraid to think for himself and make moves no one else would dream of. He has the courage of his convictions more than most coaches in the NFL.

So if there’s one quarterback in the upcoming draft who fits Shanahan’s prototype, it might be someone under the radar, just as Cousins and Beathard were.

It might be Washington quarterback Jacob Eason.

But let’s first establish exactly which quarterback traits Shanahan searches for.

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This article has 826 Comments

  1. Perhaps Shanahan will take Eason with the 31st pick, then sit him behind Garoppolo for a year or two before making Eason the starter.

    Perhaps the Buccaneers will take the 31st pick off our hands and give us #45+#76 for this 7th wonder of the world.

    1. That is the trade I want to happen. Grant is correct about Shanahan being bold but Eason ain’t the guy. I’d rather trade one of those 1st round picks than to pick up a project QB who has trouble getting through his projections and is very slow in his drop backs.

  2. Jimmy G was statistically a top 5 QB the second half of last season. He is accurate, with a quick release and has surprising good mobility/pocket awareness. His primary flaw is he doesn’t see LB and S who drift into zone coverage. He threw some picks last year which were headscratchers. Perhaps some meditation, focus and concentration therapy is in order.

    1. That’s also why he missed Kittle and Bourne like 5 times in the super bowl because he didn’t trust those flows across the middle of the field.

      I am excited to see if he gets any better at these reads in year 2.

  3. and the get rid of Jimmy drum beat goes on. I wonder what he did to Grant to warren these constant attacks. thankfuly Kyle and Lynch dont listen to this drivel.

      2. This is becoming less Inside the 49ers than Inside the Obsessive Mind of Grant Cohn. PD, how about a blog name change?

        1. So, here we go again. The Chiefs scored 21 points in 6 minutes and Son of Lowell blames ONLY the QB. His “thinks” that the Niners traded one of their two best players for the pick they should use to take a back-up quarterback.

  4. Grant
    Another boring anti JG diatribe? Beating a dead horse?

    WHO IS UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON QB JACOB EASON?
    * As a Freshman at Georgia Eason played 12 of 13 games, completing 204-of-370 throws (55.1%) for 2,430 yards and 16 scores with eight interceptions. Not bad for a true freshman QB.
    * Eason was Georgia’s starter to begin the 2017 season, but left the Bulldogs’ opener with a left knee injury.
    * Eason played in five games in 2018 (4 of 7, 57.1% completion rate), 28 yards passing), then decided to transfer to U Wash. He started all 13 games for the Huskies in 2019, completing 64.2 % of his passes for 3,132 yards and 23 TDs against eight INTs.

    NFL SCOUTING REPORT FOR JACOB EASON:
    Has elite size and arm talent reminiscent of Carson Palmer, but issues with pocket poise and getting through his progressions are more reminiscent of Brock Osweiler!
    A lack of mobility inside and outside the pocket is troubling, considering his ineffectiveness when pressured. He’s relatively inexperienced and should continue to develop from the pocket, but poise is hard to fix, and handling exotic blitz packages is not a given.
    * Eason is a pro-style, play-action-based quarterback with AVERAGE STARTER POTENTIAL AND AN AVERAGE BACKUP FLOOR.
    Yep, this is a QB that the 9ers should draft to replace JG, their QB that just took them to the SB.

    GRANT: “When Shanahan lies awake in bed at night, and replays the Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs in his mind, he must think: “I’d be a Super Bowl champion right now if I just had a quarterback who could complete a 40-yard deep pass down the middle of the field. Is that so much to ask?” No it’s not, but Eason as the 9er QB, is NOT the guy who’s going to get them to another SB because he has AVERAGE STARTER POTENTIAL AND AN VARAGE BACKUP FLOOR!

  5. 6’6 Quarterback with big arm = inaccuracy

    Big QB’s are busts:
    Mike Glennon
    Brock Osweiler
    Ryan Mallet
    Paxton Lynch
    JaMarcus Russell
    Josh Freeman
    Joe Flacco/Foles = Solid but not franchise QB’s

        1. Eason has the same arm length as Carson Palmer. Both have natural, repeatable motions because their levers aren’t too long.

          1. It’s a freaking inch dude. Do you have any evidence to support your assertion that an inch makes a big difference in whether or not you’re Carson Palmer or Nick Foles, whose arm length was the same as both Lynch and Osweiler and threw 57 mph?

            1. This thread began when someone said 6’6″ quarterbacks are never good but 6’5″ quarterbacks can be hall of famers. I don’t think being one inch taller ever hurt a quarterback, but long arms can be a hindrance.

              1. You have no outside information, no functioning data to support your theory that an arm 1″ longer is a hindrance….

              2. I remember a 6’2″ skinny kid who did OK. He is in the HOF.
                .
                JG is also 6′ 2″, and he made it to the SB after his first full season of playing.

              3. I also remember a tall long armed QB who was suppose to take the league by storm again, but now, he’s unemployed!

              4. He has a point. Having long arms is more to work with and more room for air. In a baseball sense it’s all about finding the right arm slot. If you have too elongated of a motion then you get under the throw and the ball sails. Thanks Mike Krukow!

                Phillip Rivers is a good example of long arms with adjusted throwing motion.

            1. Indeed. I just want to see him make his case with actual data rather than pulling stuff outta his rear.

      2. You said you’d do a breakdown of Cee Dee, a REAL opportunity pick, and you post this garbage?
        Really?

  7. The 49ers have held virtual meetings with three Washington players:

    RB Salvon Ahmed
    TE Hunter Bryant
    OT Jared Hilbers

    Hmmm…

    1. Jason Blakeman
      @TheBlakeJ8
      Replying to @grantcohn
      Something that I noticed. You might have accidentally run into something. Shanahan recently held video meetings with Washington players RB Salvon Ahmed and TE Hunter Bryant. Neither fit our offense at all. Ahmed is small slow RB. Bryant a short slow horrible blocking TE. Hmmm

      This dude unwittingly revealed how much tape he watches, because Salvon plays much faster on the field than his 40.

    2. Grant Cohn says:
      April 10, 2020 at 9:55 am
      “The 49ers have held virtual meetings with three Washington players:”
      RB Salvon Ahmed
      TE Hunter Bryant
      OT Jared Hilbers

      Hmmm…BUT NO EASON…..
      The devious 9er FO must be trying to keep their interest in drafting Eason a secret?

        1. Grant Cohn
          “that would be the SMART MOVE?”
          * And in 14 days we’ll remind you that’s what you said! If the 9er FO proves you’re wrong, you may not want to admit it…..But we’ll all know better…..WON’T WE!

  8. But the real question is- How good is he at towing cars? Drunkenmiller could do that, and throw a football through a brick wall.
    .
    Jamarcus Russel could kneel on the 50 yard line and throw the football to the goal line. I wonder how his strong arm did in the Pros.
    .
    Compared to Brock Osweiler? Hard pass.

  9. KS may lay awake at night and wonder why he did not use Richie James, with his fresh legs rather than a 33 year old WR who had played all game. Richie James may have had enough burst to reach that pass, and achieve that Quest. JG had enough arm strength to over throw a player on a Third Down Bomb. Maybe he needs a WR who is fast enough to run down that pass.
    .
    JG is accurate. He can not only find the tight windows, he can thread the needle into triple coverage. JG struggled in the SB, and went 3-9 AFTER he was bludgeoned with the crown of the defender’s helmet, in a vicious helmet to helmet flagrant foul, that was not called. JG ended up on the ground, clutching his helmet with both hands. He got his bell rung.

          1. You slimed out of the bet. You swore up and down that the Niners would draft Trubisky. You bet 200 bucks that they would. The Niners did not draft Trubisky, so you lost. Losers welch out on their debts.

            1. Smart people put in stipulations. Stupid people don’t read the fine print. You are one of those stupid people.

              BTW weren’t you the one that coward out of the bet anyway and Razor stepped in like a true American and took it? All the while you were the yellow guy saying “I don’t bet” And now your talking smack?
              Weak little man!

              1. Weaseling out of bets you lost is just your style. Losers welch on bets.
                .
                Racists are cowards, too.

              2. Weak little man. Talking behind other peoples business only to chime in when its convenient.
                You are yellow and a Trump toady talking smack but never willing to back it up. No American would ever do that!

  11. I think replacing Jimmy would be as silly as the decision to fire Harbaugh and replace him with Tomsula, unless you replace him with someone on par with Mahomes or Wilson.

    Last year we lost only three games, and, imo, if we had a better short-yardage running game, we probably would have won all three. That’s how good we were, with Jimmy, even though he’s not a super-duper QB.

    We have a winning formula. Just improve it a bit.

    1. I’m excited for the opportunity that Jimmy will have this year. Surely, Shanny will give him a new toy with the expectation it will help him take the next evolution in his game….

      1. That could be drafting bigger guards and a stud running back, as per Jimmy Facts. Gotta solve the short yardage and Red Zone problems. At some point you have to stop trying to fool people and get rough with them.

        1. I am going into this draft with these thoughts in mind:

          1. I can’t count on Hurd ever seeing the field.
          2. I can’t count on Taylor ever staying on the field.
          3. I can’t count on Pettis ever producing on the field.
          4. I can’t count on Joe Staley returning.
          5. I can’t count on Richburg playing this year.
          6. I can’t count on Blair until midseason.

          1. Can you count on your fingers?

            We definitely need a guard/center and a tackle.

            They did it all last year without those WRs. Certainly need to replace Sanders.

            Yup, the left edge needs help.

    1. If Jimmy enters elite category it won’t be because of having more weapons. It will be because he’s grown and taken the next step. Elite QBs don’t need a multitude of weapons to be successful, and have often shown their mettle when weapons are not around or injured.

  13. I like drafting cb’s that can turn and locate the ball to make a play on it. That’s not Terrell. Late 1st early 2nd players that can do it: Diggs, Fulton and Arnette.

    1. Yeah, I still like Bryce Hall after a trade back. But Arnette would also be good. I think Fulton goes 1st round and not sold on Diggs, though if he fell to mid/late 2nd round I’d be happy with him there.

      1. Scooter, do you think Hall could be one of those that slide into round 3 because of his medicals, and teams not having the comfort level they’re accustomed to in a regular year?

        1. Yes, anywhere from late round 2 through to even early round 4 (though unlikely) I think is a possibility for Hall.

          Bryan Edwards is another guy that could also go a lot later than I think he should due to injury and not getting a chance to show what a good athlete he is. If the 49ers could pick up Hall and Edwards in round 3 I would be extremely happy.

          1. Scooter,

            In this scenario, does that leave the first two picks of the draft off limits for WR?

            I saw a comment by Torrey Smith (which as been echoed by several sources, as well on this blog) saying this offense needs to have a speed guy to open things up.

            With Goodwin likely out the door, and Benjamin potentially being no more than a camp body, this offense would lack top end speed.

            In your scenario the WR group would most likely be Deebo, Edwards, Kittle (TE) and Bourne.
            (Plus the unknowns: Hurd, Taylor, Pettis)

            Would you feel comfortable with that group ?

  15. My opinion is if they don’t draft WR at 13, it will be NT. And that NT will be Javon Kinlaw.
    No CB, no QB, (eye roll) no OT.
    Two major pieces have left, at least one of them will be filled via pick 13.
    Bank on it
    And at 31 of no trade back they could still get a stud at WR.

    1. Javon Kinlaw has knee tendinitis. Definitely wouldn’t want another player dealing with that. Especially not at 13

  16. Today’s Take-Out Menu Options:
    1/ Nothing Burger
    or
    2/ Wish Sandwich (Bow bow bow)

    But no worse than ESPN running years old Golf. smh

  17. Kyle wants to make a bold draft choice?
    .
    He could use a first round pick to select Michael Turk. His 25 reps makes him stronger than many D linemen. ;p

  18. If the top WRs and OTs are gone at 13, one surprise guy I wouldn’t mind the team taking either at 13 or preferably after a small trade back is K’Lavon Chaisson. He can be a rotational edge rusher year 1 while providing nice insurance if Ford’s injury woes continue, and take over from Ford in 2021. I would even consider taking him over Brown, Kinlaw and Henderson at 13, though any of those guys would be fine by me. But if the option to trade back presented itself I would take that over any of those four (including Chaisson).

    1. I’m not gonna lie and say that thought hadn’t cross my mind, but it’d be a big gamble given the injury history. Then if you come back in round 2 or 3 and take Hall, that’d be two high draft picks spent on players with medical concerns….

      1. If injury concerns scared the team they would never have drafted Bosa, Deebo or Hurd last year. That was their first three picks and all of those guys had a serious history of injuries. Greenlaw and Harris too for that matter.

        1. Yea, they’ve shown enough courage in drafting injured players, however they also were able to fully investigate those injuries to their satisfaction with their medical staff. That’s where the gamble in a year they won’t be able to do that gets a little trickier….

            1. Dustin Little will compile a list of all combine participants with each athlete’s name, position, school, relevant medical history, relevant orthopedic history, test results and overall medical grade. Lynch and Shanny will then take that data into consideration as part of the evaluation process. Some players, however, will merit additional discussion. Hall for sure would be one of those that could fall into that category and likely someone they might want a medical revisit….

  19. Justin M
    @JustinM_NFL
    #Michigan OG Michael’s Onwenu was able to make private visits to the #Patriots & #Dolphins prior to COVID-19.

    Since then, he’s recently held pre-draft meetings over FaceTime with the #Eagles, #Lions, #Giants, #49ers & #Jaguars.

    This guy is far from what Shanny normally wants at OG. I wonder if he’s looking to sacrifice movement for beef….
    45
    4:39 PM – Apr 10, 2020

    1. He’s another of those 2nd/3rd round CBs I would be very happy with.

      Is it just me, or do the 49ers seem to be spending more time visiting with day 2 prospects (at multiple positions) than day 1 prospects? Makes me wonder if they really plan on staying at either 13 or 31.

      1. They are telegraphing trade down and don’t seem to care. Tells me they’ve already got a partner.

          1. He’s doing 800 pushups a day. Shanny loves him. Your tingling could very well be spot on. Round 2.

            1. Don’t be surprised when the 49ers use a 1st on him after a trade back. And earlier than 31. I just have a sense he is the guy the 49ers are targeting.

              2. When have the 49ers under ShanaLynch ever waited patiently for a player they want to fall to them?

              3. I know but it kills me when they do that crap. So Miami’s #26+#39 gets them the 49ers #13. Reagor is the pick at #26. That would give them some flexibility to trade down from either #31 or #39 for a 3rd or 4th rounder, plus they’ll probably get a 4th for Breida….

              4. Scooter, you always seem to have a pretty keen sense of the coming prospects. What’s your take on Chase Claypool?
                Because I see a physical monster who has extreme athletic ability for his size and his catch radius is phenomenal.
                I don’t tend to get caught up in combine heroes, but at 6’4” 238 he ran a 4.42. First guy that size to do so since Megatron.
                Maybe it’s because he’s a Canadian boy, but I think this guy is a stud. Thoughts?

  21. I disagree with you guys. It’s going to be very difficult to construct trades in this new environment with the draft. I don’t mind reagor as a player but to trade back and eye him over some of the others I don’t see. I have said it many times here. If Ruggs is there at 13 I do not see him passing him up. He is the target!

    1. I think the trade concerns are overblown. Those have always been handled over the phone. That won’t change.

      1. Agreed. Nothings changed in that regard. What I really like about Reagor is he has a good head on his shoulders, and is extremely confident. No character red flags that I’m aware of and Shanny is in love with his versatility. Gotta keep in mind that this is a positionless offense that he’s building….

        1. Yeah, its his ability to do pretty much everything Shanahan wants his WRs to do plus elite athleticism that lead me to believe he will be the target. Can play inside, outside and from the backfield, and threaten all levels of the field. He’s not my favourite WR in the class, but I think Shanahan will value him more highly than I do.

          1. Does he have elite athleticism though?
            I’m not just talking about his 40. He also had a poor short shuttle and 3 cone which are both measurements that Kyle values greatly.

            1. Yeah, he is. Very explosive. And he looks like he moves very well with ball in hand. I think he got too big for the combine which impacted his speed and movement. He probably needs to be around 195lbs. I don’t think he is a sub 4.3 guy, but I think he is probably a 4.3 to 4.4 guy that has great acceleration with ok lateral agility.

              1. Good call Scooter. This was exactly my theory shortly after the combine. As you know, I was extremely high on Reagor going into the combine, and while I wasn’t 100% sure Reagor would run a sub 4.4 40, I never expected him to struggle in the agility drills. Then again, I also never expected him to tip the scales at an extremely muscular, thick-legged 208 lbs, so I simply connected the dots.

            2. FWIW, I also just saw a tweet of his “pro day” results. Take these with a healthy grain of salt, but he had dropped to 198lbs and ran sub 4.3s in the 40, sub 4.05s in the SS and sub 6.8s in the 3-cone. I’m sure those are all at least a little generous, but say you add .1s to .2s to each you have results that seem to stack up with the tape and also fall within Shanahan’s desired thresholds.

              1. That is interesting.
                Such a huge discrepancy between the numbers leads me to wonder what might have been wrong with him. I don’t think a simple decrease in weight explains it, so I’m guessing there is more to the story.

              2. It’s possible he had some minor injury, though if that was the case he probably wouldn’t have done the tests. He could also have just been tired by the time the SS and 3-cone were done – those are the last things they do and it is quite late when they do them (and after a hectic few days). But I think the main thing probably was he got too big too quick and just wasn’t used to moving at that weight. I know from experience that can really slow you down, especially in terms of agility.

  22. It’s also possible that the FO may need to plan for the likely hood that there’s no football in 2020.
    With that in mind, replacing players like Sherman and Staley in this draft could be a strong priority.
    These two players would not only be a year older, but their skill set may be diminished as well.
    Wouldn’t surprise me to see a top OL and CB go 1 and 2.

    1. I don’t think it is likely that there won’t be any football in 2020. But it is a possibility.

      If there isn’t, the 2021 draft could be one of the strangest ever – teams would be basing draft picks on limited film from over a year prior. I imagine a lot of prospects would forego the draft to stay at school wherever possible too. With that in mind, as you suggest, it could well be that it is in the best interest of teams to look at filling as many future holes this year as possible too.

      1. If history is any indication, there will be a full season of NFL football. I’m very confident of that.

        1. I would hope so, but unless there is a vaccine by August, I don’t see the NFL forcing the players to play especially if many of them don’t want to risk any potential contagious virus when making contact with other players.
          Again,
          I too, am hoping that there is a 2020 football season. But I doubt that even the NFL headquarters can make a certain determination at the moment.

          1. I don’t see the NFL forcing the players to play especially if many of them don’t want to risk any potential contagious virus when making contact with other players

            It really won’t be up to the league. The municipal or state level authorities overseeing the jurisdiction where stadiums are located will be making this call. And after the possibility of just a couple months re-emergence from this horror show does anyone think they would be up to another round so soon?

          2. AES when summer is in full bloom this virus will be a thing of the past.
            There will be football. Sucks the NBA is done though. My Lakers were back and hitting stride at the right time

            1. Well before that, Prime. What about training camps? Or any of the other team business/activities between draft and then?

              1. Hey Rib. I hope your well buddy in NYC. Honestly, I have no idea how this thing turns around but I’m hopeful, by September this is a better situation for everyone.

              2. Thanks Prime. It’s been pretty grim, what with refrigerated trailers stationed outside hospitals as makeshift temp morgues. A glimmer of good news , the sheltering in place efforts seem to have flattened the curve enough that some of earlier predictions of completely overwhelmed health care facilities haven’t come to pass. Just doing my part, gloves, mask when venturing out for necessities. Luckily I’m in a sector where I can work from home, my heart goes out to those economically unable, or those in “essential “ work, putting their health and lives on the line. All delivery people get generously tipped.

              3. Good luck Rib. Planning to make a trip to NYC to see the Niners vs. Jets or Giants next year. Hopefully that happens.
                Would love to meet you.

              5. Yeah, I was looking forward to two Niner games back here this season. We’ll see. If it happens, yeah would love to meet up. With the sucktitude of both N.Y. teams, some pretty sweet seats will be available on the secondary market.

              6. Ribico stay safe in NYC man!
                I’m a Toronto based comedian and a lot of my pals have moved to live and work there. They have some pretty grim stories to share.
                I too was gonna head down to see friends and the Niners games there this year. Though it looks doubtful.
                Stay safe man.

        3. If history is any indication, there will be a full season of NFL football.

          I’m curious Razor, what in history do you see as analogous to where we are with regards to On With The Sports Show? (George Washington and his smallpox inoculation predates the NFL).

          1. For perspective, the last time the Church of The Holy Sepulchre was closed on Easter Weekend was 700 years ago……during The Black Plague.

            1. More perspective: The Black Plague killed 50 million. The Wuhan Virus has killed 106,564.

              1. Some parts of society have learned a few things in 700 years. Others are bailing against the tide.

              2. Razor here in Oregon they just laid off 800 nurses, can’t afford them due to the shut down of the economy in this state. I am lmao at kate brown, wtg kate its going get worst and I am not talking about the virus.

              3. More facts. The plague has been estimated to have killed 100 million people million people, because it lingered over the centuries, especially in crowded cities with little sanitation, and rudimentary medical care. It was usually 100% fatal. Now, with antibiotics and careful monitoring, it still persists, but is under control. They shut several parks in California, because the gopher population was found to have fleas with the Bubonic Plague bacteria, in the last few years.
                .
                The Corona virus is a mutation of the flu virus, but its main victims are the health compromised and elderly. Many younger people have mild symptoms, but can be carriers for a week or 2 before showing any symptoms. Worldwide, there have been 1.7 million people infected, and over 100 thousand deaths, for a 16% death rate. In America, there are over 500 thousand infected and 19 thousand dead, for a 3 % death rate. Some put the figure at 3.4%. The death toll in America is less, and might be mitigated by the access to breathing ventilators.
                .
                The plague is still around, but the biggest recent outbreak occurred in China that started in 1860, and did not officially finally end until 1959, and killed 10 million people.
                .
                Thankfully, we have learned from history, and are not doomed to repeat it.

              5. More perspective: The Black Plague killed 50 million.

                And I imagine all the jousting tournaments were cancelled.

              6. Seb, due to the abysmal testing efforts/coordination in the USA, it’s likely the rates of infection / deaths are greatly underreported

              7. Ribico says:
                April 11, 2020 at 4:17 pm
                Seb, due to the abysmal testing efforts/coordination in the USA, it’s likely the rates of infection / deaths are greatly underreported

                Funny because I’ve seen reports from real news sources and people walking into these “overpacked”
                Insane hospitals showing ambulances sitting there and nobody killing each other to be seen, in fact they are empty.

                And another fact. Doctors are given the green light to pretty much say what they want about a death with this virus. They have full control over what it says on death certificates.
                Still don’t think this is overblown?
                Turn off morning Joe and Madcow and research some real news my man.
                The ship sent in isn’t even 20 percent full.
                And your governor like the idiots here in Cali should have their state prepared for stuff like this, but it’s orange man’s fault of course.
                I mean right off the bat he was called a racist for shutting down flights from China.
                Go figure.
                Relax people. The flu can kill people with underlying diseases just the same. Oh wait… it already did.
                #thehypeisahoax

              8. Highly unlikely they’d underreport the deaths. If the patient had CV like systems and died, the AMA recommends docs ascribe death to the CV. Obviously it’s much more likely the numbers of infected have been underreported, probably very much so.

              10. Still don’t think this is overblown?
                Turn off morning Joe and Madcow and research some real news my man.

                Can you be any more of a f-ing idiot????? Come to my city, NYC, the epi-f-ing-center in the flesh, and start with that $hit, we’ll drill some knowledge into the empty head of yours.

                #thehypeisahoax

                Drop dead, @sshole. I’ve had it with your @sshattery.

              11. Agreed, George.

                Huh. Public health professionals disagree with a couple guys on the internet. Go figure.

                Across the United States, even as coronavirus deaths are being recorded in terrifying numbers — many hundreds each day — the true death toll is likely much higher.
                …
                More than 9,400 people with the coronavirus have been reported to have died in this country as of this weekend, but hospital officials, doctors, public health experts and medical examiners say that official counts have failed to capture the true number of Americans dying in this pandemic. The undercount is a result of inconsistent protocols, limited resources and a patchwork of decision making from one state or county to the next.
                …
                “We definitely think there are deaths that we have not accounted for,” said Jennifer Nuzzo, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security, which studies global health threats and is closely tracking the coronavirus pandemic.

                http://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/05/us/coronavirus-deaths-undercount.amp.html

              13. Yes. The local paper where this is all happening. I’m sure our poster Alphadux appreciates you and md spitting in his face.

                You cultists are pathetic. Seriously.

              15. “Seb, due to the abysmal testing efforts/coordination in the USA….”

                Don’t know about NY Rib but in Arizona our testing for death is 100 percent certain. If there are unreported cases of infected people but we know the number of deaths I believe the percentage goes down, which is good.

              17. Razor, coronavirus could give jack crap about my (or even your) politics. It does respect the efforts each and every one of us are doing to mitigate it.

              18. Whine, normally in NYC 20-25 people die at home each day. We Have reached 200-215. Every day. Only people who die at home who are known to have a positive coronavirus test have the disease listed as the official cause on their death certificate. Those die at home people are not being tested. This from the NYC Council health committee chair, a guy on the front lines who knows of what he speaks.

              19. I feel sorry for people like Rib whose life is nothing but politics

                So you’d feel sorry for a guy who’s uplifting Easter message consists of:

                Just watched Mike Wallace wannabe, Chris Wallace, on @FoxNews. I am now convinced that he is even worse than Sleepy Eyes Chuck Todd of Meet the Press(please!), or the people over at Deface the Nation. What the hell is happening to @FoxNews. It’s a whole new ballgame over there!

                Btw, Happy Easter Razor, keep safe.

              20. Lecturing about the Easter message all while supporting abortion.?

                Happy Easter!

              21. And a divisive Easter to you too Razor.

                btw, where exactly in the Bible does Jesus share his views on abortion? He is on record stating a rich person is never going to make it into the Kingdom of Heaven. That’s bad news for your cult leader. Maybe not, like abortion, people who lie about their wealth aren’t mentioned either. That is covered in the commandments though. Huh, funny, abortion isn’t in there either.

              23. Razor, if you don’t believe in abortion, don’t have one. If you believe in forcing a woman in what she or shouldn’t do, forbid your wife or daughter from getting one. Simple, no? But here’s hoping you personally had a Happy abortion free Easter, as that is what you seemed most concerned about.

                You ever think about taking some of that pent up political piss and vinegar out on the Chinese?

                Why, what Chinese person is blathering here about #thehypeisahoax with you in the amen choir? MD is Puerto Rican, should I take some of that pent up political piss and vinegar out on them? No, I’ll take it out on idiot individuals instead.

              24. Your problems run deeper than even I anticipated. I can’t help you. Maybe your hero Biden can.

              25. My “problem” of people having freedom? Aren’t you the self-described “freedom-fighter”?

                And dude, talk about problems, you were the one that brought up abortion out of the clear blue. I’d never made my feelings on that divisive topic public here.

              26. Your democratic gods are all you’ve got, and your devotional prayers have left you with Biden. You poor, unfortunate soul. In pain, in need. So sad, so true.

    2. That makes sense… and players in this draft might become more valuable. Think about trying to draft players that teams have limited film on, and little idea how well they kept themselves in game shape.

  23. Saw on NN that they talked with Denzel Mims. I would like to see the list of players contacted, and where in the draft they might go.
    .
    I just do not get the love for Love. Watched his highlights, and saw wide open WRs and no pass pressure. Of course, if they showed his low lights, I could have seen all of his 17 interceptions. I just thinks he is immobile, and will be run down by the pass rushers. Some team might fall in love with Love, but there are very many QB needy teams. Both the Raiders and Jax have multiple first round picks, so they may be interested in Love with that second pick. Belichick may be blowing smoke, declaring he was happy with Stidham. Love could go at 23, but Belichick may first want to find the replacement for Kyle Van Noy. Jalen Hurts is ranked around where the Patriots have 2 picks, so he may go later. hurts may have the best career of all the QBs, because Burrow, Tua and Herbert may be going to poor teams.
    .
    With JG as their franchise QB, and having an amply capable backup in Mullens, the Niners do not need to draft a QB. It would be better to wait and sign an UDFA, because there are some sleeper prospects past the draft.
    .
    Bryce Perkins, Cole MacDonald and Khalil Tate are dual threat QBs. Anthony Gordon can sling the ball like Gardner Minshew. Steve Montez, Kelley Bryant and Shea Patterson may be long shots.

  24. I have a sense that Belichick coaches for one more season. He probably wants to prove to the football world that he could win without Brady. He might be able to win 8-10 games, but I doubt that he ever wins another SB. This divorce between Belichick and Brady will not be good for either of them.

    1. Do not count Belichick out. He is in a dysfunctional division, and he did have that defense playing very well.
      .
      I have no doubt that he will draft another QB, and if that QB is good enough, they will get back to the playoffs.
      .
      Winning another SB may be problematic, because the Titans Ravens and Chiefs have built strong teams, but Belichick is so good, he may be able to coach up that QB so he can compete in the AFCC Game.

  25. The more I look at Kinlaw the more I see Solomon Thomas. Great run defender, inconsistent against the pass.

    1. Interesting, I think Kinlaw is a far better pass rusher. In fact, I think he’s the best interior pass rusher in this draft.
      His get-off is one of the best I’ve seen from an interior lineman and that’s amazing considering his size.
      His biggest issue is that he is extremely raw.

      1. I agree. One of Kinlaw’ strength is his pass/bull rushing ability. Thomas’ biggest asset in college was his quickness, but his over strength was questionable. Quickness without good strength does no translate very well in the pro game.

        That is why Thomas has been slightly better than average (I’m being kind).
        Kinlaw has a quick step and brings a strong push to go with it. Kinlaw also seems to have better technique than Thomas. Kinlaw can get around or though Olinemen while Solly gets trapped in their chest.
        I’d be fine with Kinlaw if that’s the route the FO decides to go.

    2. His tape as an inside pass rusher is inconsistent. He has strong hands with good technique but I don’t see the sudden explosiveness that you see with an Aaron Donald type of DT. He also gets stood up a lot at the line of scrimmage. It’ll be very interesting to see him against NFL quality lineman.

      I think he’s a quality defensive tackle I just don’t know that he’s going to be a pass rush powerhouse like many seem to assume he’ll be.

      1. We do know that Thomas will not replicate what Buckner did for the defense. One of Buck’ greatest asset was commanding double teaming. This allowed Bosa and Armstead to be productive and make their presence felt.

        Thomas will not command double teaming which as a result, could diminish Bosa’ and Armstead’ production.

        I’d like to see what we have in Kentavius Street, because he may have enough strength at the LOS to command double team attention.
        What we do know is that Solly is not the long term answer.

    3. He’s not Thomas, but yeah, I’m not loving the idea of taking him in the top 15.

      Unlike Thomas, Kinlaw has the physical tools to be dominant though. Thomas has speed and acceleration, but he’s simply too small with short arms to be consistently effective. Kinlaw is big, long, strong and quick.

  26. Grant Cohn
    @grantcohn
    ·
    23h
    Quick 49ers mock draft.
    49ers trade pick 13 to Denver for picks 15 and 95.
    49ers trade pick 31 to LAC for picks 37 and 112.
    15: C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
    37: Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
    95: Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
    112: Jack Driscoll, G/T, Auburn

    This is the worst mock draft I’ve seen thus far.

    1. Grant Cohn Press Democrat.com April 5th, 2019
      John Lynch is on the clock.

      He needs to crush the draft this year, or his time as a general manager could end soon. Through two seasons as a GM, his 49ers are 10-22. If they have another losing season in 2019, someone probably will get fired, and that someone could be Lynch, fair or not.
      Lynch isn’t solely responsible for the 49ers’ problems — head coach Kyle Shanahan shares culpability. He’s the one who wanted to take quarterback C.J. Beathard in Round 3 of the 2017 draft instead of NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes in Round 1.

      Grant Cohn
      @grantcohn
      ·
      23h
      Quick 49ers mock draft.
      49ers trade pick 13 to Denver for picks 15 and 95.
      49ers trade pick 31 to LAC for picks 37 and 112.
      15: C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
      37: Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
      95: Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
      112: Jack Driscoll, G/T, Auburn

      With this draft, Grant would realize his dream! And get both 49er GM John Lynch and HC Kyle Shanahan fired!

  27. This draft is charting new territory. I hope they have a mock draft practice dry run, so they can see how the technology is working. They should extend the draft, and have more time between picks. Maybe one day for the first round, one day for the second round, one day for the third and 4th rounds, one day for the fifth and sixth rounds, and one day for the seventh round, and an additional 8th and 9th rounds. The 8th and 9th rounds will be helping the UDFAs, because the teams will not be able to assess them properly, with all the travel restrictions.

    1. This draft is charting new territory. I hope they have a mock draft practice dry run, so they can see how the technology is working.

      The nfl has one scheduled for this week I believe.

  28. My top 5 choices for #13 in the order I would take them:

    1. Trade down. I’ve been a big supporter of Jeudy from the beginning but we’ll have a better chance of returning to the SuperBowl if they can address 3-4 positions with top prospects instead of just one or maybe two.

    2. Jerry Jeudy – WR. I haven’t been as excited about a WR prospect since I can remember. The first time I saw a video of him playing back in October my jaw was left hanging. I had no thought given our trajectory during the season that we’d ever be in a position to have him, and frankly we might not be. He could be long gone by #13 but I also remember once thinking that it would be next to impossible for Crabtree to make it to #10.

    3. Jedrick Wills OT. If the best tackle prospect is available and your left tackle is possibly playing his last season you should take him. LT is too important of a position to leave to an inconsistent 6th round pick.

    4. Andrew Thomas OT. I’ve switched my OT rankings around and have Thomas as my #2 prospect. If Wills and Jeudy are gone and Thomas is available he’s the third player I’d take in this draft.

    5. CJ Henderson CB. There’s zero chance Okudah is even a thought at #13, right? I haven’t seen a mock yet that puts him anywhere near the vicinity of #13. If he was he’d be my next choice after Jeudy. With that said Henderson is the clear next choice. Henderson truly looks the part and frankly I don’t see that much of a drop off from Okudah to Henderson.

    I have OL and CB tied as the biggest needs for the team. If the elite Jeudy is gone than the team should look at taking the strongest prospects at one of those two positions.

    1. Yes. I’m on board with this. I would probably take Wirfs over Thomas due to the upside (and it isn’t as though Wirfs floor is low – he’s already pretty good). And I would take Lamb over Henderson, but only barely. I’d also be fine with Chaisson as mentioned yesterday.

      1. I wouldn’t be disappointed in either tackle.

        The only receiver I’d take at #13 is Jeudy otherwise I’d lock in one of the other positions I value more in this draft. It’s not a knock on the other two as much as it is an endorsement of Jeudy. I have zero doubt that Jeudy will be a star NFL reciever. The other two as strong as they are, are still just prospects. That’s what elevates him to the point of being taken over the two positions I think we should address first.

  29. Three trade backs that the Niners could execute, in order to achieve the goal to get picks in the second, third and 4th rounds. It would utilize the 2 first round picks so they can get 5 picks in the first 4 rounds, instead of only 2.
    .
    The Niners trade back 5 spots with the Dolphins, because the 3 players they were targeting, are selected in the first 12 picks. The Dolphins want to move up to select an OT, and have 14 picks, so they can easily afford to use a pick to move up. The Niners give up pick number 13 for the Dolphins pick numbers 18 and 70. The Niners trade back from that 18th pick with the Vikings, because they want to move up to get the next best WR or CB. The Vikings have lots of draft capital with 12 picks. The Niners trade back again, from 18 to 22, for the Vikings picks 22 and 89.
    .
    With their 31st pick, the Niners move back 6 spots with the Chargers, because the Chargers want to move up, back into the first round to pick either a QB or RB. For the 31st pick, the Chargers give up pick numbers 37 and 112.
    .
    The Niners make one more trade. They trade Marquise Goodwin and Shon Coleman to the Broncos for their 83rd pick. They are looking for O line help, and Goodwin runs a 4.27 forty, so he is as fast as Ruggs. It is hard to give up Coleman, but one has to trade decent players, or the trade will not be fair, or the trade will not be feasible.
    .
    The Niners move back 15 slots, and get a pick in the second round, 2 third round picks, and a 4th round pick. They end up with pick numbers 22, 37, 70, 83, 89, 112, 156. 176, 210, 217 and 245.
    .
    Mock draft 12. The Bold KS draft.
    .
    Using the CBS Big Board, and trying to select within 5 of each ranking, the Niners could select-
    22- Trevon Diggs CB.
    37- Denzel Mims WR.
    70- Jordan Elliot DT.
    83- Chase Claypool WR/TE.
    89- Raekwon Davis NT.
    112- Ben Bartch OT.
    156- AJ Dillon RB.
    176- Justin Strnad LB.
    210- Tanner Muse S.
    217- Trevis Gipson DE.
    245- Jon Runyan OG
    .
    The Niners get a CB, WR, DT, WR/TE and NT in the first 4 rounds.
    .
    Bartch is raw, with good potential. Dillon is 247 lbs and ran a 4.53 forty. Strnad had a torn Bicep, which allowed him to fall in the rankings, but has good potential when healthy. Muse is way down in the rankings, but ran a 4.41 forty. Gipson is a possible diamond in the rough. Runyan has the pedigree and is very smart.

        1. It’s coming Mr.President and I’m willing to bet you $200 that mine will be more accurate than yours. Wanna bet?

          Whomever has the most correct picks on draft day wins.

            1. Here is your chance to prove me wrong and show the world you are not a coward and finally see who wins.
              Come on Seb. If I don’t pay you can tell the blog and I’ll never show my face on here again. No stipulations.
              Straight up. Most picks right wins.

              1. Sun Tzu mentioned that a battle is won before a blow is struck. You have lost already, because you want to make it twice as hard to win. You even claimed they do not need the draft.
                .
                Maybe you should make a mock, to show how clueless you are, so I will take you lightly.

              2. You are either too cheap, lack the stones, or just a flat out coward. You just defined yourself.

                Bet and prove to everyone how smart you are?

              3. You really do not know the first thing about sportsmanship and behaving correctly.
                .
                Bullying and taunting just says way more about you than it does me. First you spewed expletives, then invective, then threats and now desperately projecting.
                .
                I do not need to prove that I am smarter than you. You proved your lack of football acumen by betting the Niners would draft Trubisky. You taunted me about that bet about 20 times. You would first have to pay Razor what you owe him, before I would ever consider betting you.
                .
                I already am telling the blog that you welched. I already have won because you will never see a penny from me. Your money is tainted, and I do not want your money.
                .
                You may try to make a mock that you think the Niners might do, which may include just staying at 13 and 31. I make mocks that tries to optimize the talent taken. They would be risky, and many teams may not want to trade.
                .
                Put up a mock. I have put up 12. They are really easy to do, but they do require some thinking. On second thought, you may be incapable of generating one, so never mind.

              4. “ You would first have to pay Razor what you owe him, before I would ever consider betting you“

                So if I give Razor $200, you will bet me?

              6. Seb says:
                April 11, 2020 at 6:20 pm
                “ You would first have to pay Razor what you owe him, before I would ever consider betting you“

                So consider it. You say the word. I’ll give Razor the money he didn’t legitimately win, whatever, to have a chance with you!

  30. That would be a good haul, especially with the first 5 picks. But the only possible players who I see getting playing time are Davis, Mims and Diggs.
    They are not day one starters, imo. By mid-season they might see more opportunities, but that’s where I put them right now.
    If I had my druthers, I would keep our two 1st rd picks since they provide the best chance at starting right away.

    At the moment (although I really like him),
    Goodwin’ speed has no relevance if he can’t get on the field. I honestly can’t count on him to be productive as a 49er.
    CeeDee and Juedy could be day one starters. Ruggs could be as well, but he will likely be used in special packages, while the other two would stay on the field.

    1. Well, the Niners had a meeting with Denzel Mims, so he may be acceptable to KS. I just do not see how much more talented those 3 top WRs are, compared to Mims. Justin Jefferson, Tee Higgins, Laviska Shenault, Jalen Raegor, and Brandon Aiyuk. They may also be first round and early second round prospects that would be an adequate replacement for Sanders.
      .
      Also, remember that Trent Taylor and Jalen Hurd may be healthy. Taylor in the slot with Hurd as the hybrid WR/TE/RB option, may be good enough, so they will concentrate on other needs. maybe they will draft a returner, which would allow Richie James to have more snaps. I think KS will plan to showcase Goodwin, in case another team loses a WR to injury and needs a replacement.
      .
      Yes, I would not quibble too much if they draft a top 3 WR. I will be supportive, just like I was with Bosa. I cheered for his success, and I will do that for a WR, too. I am not privvy to any inside information, so I guess i will just have to be confident JL will do everything in his power to obtain talent that might help the team win. He will need the help and aid from Adam Peters, Martin Mayhew and Keena Turner along with the scouts and coaches. It will be interesting to see what direction do they take.
      .
      I hope JL hits a grand slam.

  31. The dump Garoppolo rhetoric reminds me of a degenerate gambler’s mentality. Has SF become so accustomed to losing that winning is uncomfortable?
    A rookie doesn’t come in and win games or championships. Mahomes didn’t. Eason certainly won’t.
    SF can win a Super Bowl with Garoppolo. Hell, Baltimore won one with Trent Dilfer. Could there be a worse NFL QB in the league whose won a super bowl?

      2. Rob Johnson was on that Bucs team as well, and if memory serves me correctly he played some snaps in the super bowl?
        Though I was in college then and my memory is spotty.

  32. I’ve been watching film on Ruggs, Lamb and Jeudy and I like all 3 for different reasons. Lamb is a speedier Mike Evans. He will literally wrestle the ball away from a defender. Anyway, I’m bored out of my mind.

  33. Fatso told us he would run the country like he ran his business. Mission accomplished. Is it a coincidence that the last two Republican presidents caused catastrophic damage to the country?

  37. Easter Bonnet Mock:

    #13)**TRADE**

    Ravens send picks #28(1)+#55(2)+#92(3) and select K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU

    #28)Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
    #31)**TRADE**

    Tampa Brady sends picks #45(2)+2021 3rd and select Austin Jackson, OT, USC

    #45)Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise St.
    #55)Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
    #92)Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia

    #120)**Trade**

    Jets trade for Matt Breida sending Lynch their 4th rounder

    #120)Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA
    #156)Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis
    #176)Javaris Davis, NB, Auburn
    #210)J. R. Reed, S, Georgia
    #217)Cordel Iwuagwu, OG, TCU
    #245)JaMycal Hasty, RB, Baylor

    1. That’s a soild mock. Wouldn’t be upset with that. I just do not see the Niners passing on an opportunity to take a very impactful player in Ruggs, Lamb or Kinlaw unless all are gone. Everyone is on the Reagor train right now. I don’t see it. I think Chris Simms is very well informed with what Kyle likes. He doesn’t even mention him in his top 6-7…. He talks to Kyle a lot. Niners wanted to be in striking distance for one particular player. My senses are telling me he played at Alabama and it’s not JJ…. But in less then 2 weeks we all will find out.

      1. Thanks, RAW. I wanted Reagor at pick #31 prior to the combine. Kinda soured on him after his speed wasn’t as advertised. Why I’m sold he’s Shanny’s type is due to his versatility in this positionless offense, high character, toughness, work ethic and not lacking confidence….

    2. Yeah, this is the type of draft and draft picks I can really see happening. I’m all aboard the Reagor to 49ers train, and can definitely see an OT, DT and CB added on day 2. Like all your picks too – especially Elliott and Hall.

      Also a big fan of Gibson and Hasty. I suspect Gibson won’t be a 49ers target though, especially if they draft Reagor. Hasty looks like a really nice late round value pick to me.

    3. Tbh, it probably won’t look too different to yours. I think a couple of different trade partners might be Minnesota for pick 13 to draft a top WR to replace Diggs (could get 22, 58 and 105 in return) and the Browns for pick 31 to get a 5th year option on either a LB or safety that falls (could get 41 + 97).

      With that, I could still see the first four guys you have being targets. Could actually look to trade up from 97 with one of their day 3 picks too (or using Breida or Goodwin). Same with 105, where they are probably looking at a safety, TE or DE. Terrell Burgess, Harrison Bryant or Bradlee Anae are all guys I like that could all fit there. And after that, depth at whichever of those positions they have missed out on so far, plus an interior OL.

  38. MM article today suggests the Niners may go for Jonathan Taylor:

    “The 49ers already have a lot invested in their running backs, so it would definitely come as a surprise if they were to hit that position at the end of the first round or early in the second (with a trade back).

    Jonathan Taylor of Wisconsin was prolific in the Big Ten, rushing for 6,174 yards and 50 touchdowns during his three-year career. He is a perfect scheme fit for the 49ers, and what he showed as a receiver last season provides the team with an element it did not have last season.

    Taylor caught 26 passes for 252 yards and five touchdowns last season. That is an area of his game that can grow, and give Garoppolo a reliable safety valve. Taylor in the open field is explosive and he has great ability to make defenders miss.”

    https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/49ers/nfl-draft-2020-five-bold-49ers-predictions-could-shock-some-fans

      1. It would be out-of-pattern for Kyle to consider drafting him in an early round. But Kyle’s evolving, and this young man is quite a football player. He almost makes scoring touchdowns look boring.

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=we_qHxD6C-4

        Ask yourself this: Who would make our offense more threatening, Ruggs or Taylor? I don’t think there’s an easy answer.

        1. The Shanny’s shun 1st round running backs going all the way back to 1936 when Grandpappy Shanny made it tradition….

          1. Would be nice to be able to limit Murray, Wilson, Breeze, etc. to 5 minutes a quarter. Also give our defense more rest.

    2. Well, that certainly would be a bold draft choice by KS.
      .
      However, his MO is finding late round and UDFA RBs. I like Michael Warren and Josh Kelley.

    3. Some mocks have Jonathan Taylor going in the late 1st to 2nd rd which is perplexing for me because of his consistency throughout his college career. Taylor was fortunate to have a great OL during his career, but what he did once he got to the second level was all him.

      I would like JT on our team but only if we could maneuver into the 2nd rd. I’m remaining adamant on keeping our #13 because that pick (whether WR, DL, OL or CB) holds a strong possibility of providing a starter.

    1. He meant drafting a replacement with the 13th or 31st picks would be a mistake. He wanted to count on Blair, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and DJ Jones, who also was injured.
      .
      Maybe he should have considered trading back and using an extra pick to select a replacement in the second or third round.
      .
      Yes, selecting a Buckner clone may be gone, if Derek Brown and Javon Kinlaw are chosen earlier. Justin Madubuike, Ross Blacklock, Marlon Davidson, Neville Gallimore, Davon Hamilton and Jordan Elliot may all be candidates in the second and third rounds who may be good enough to replace Buckner.

  41. Walter Football released a new mock with trades. Recommend people check it out. Has a lot of very well reasoned and logical trades. The one I think makes most sense for the 49ers is Vikings looking to trade up from 22 for CJ Henderson. In this mock they trade up to 16 (ironically with the 49ers, who they had previously trading 13 with the Falcons). Apparently they really like Henderson, and they desperately need CBs. I could see them moving up to 13 for him.

    Also have 49ers trading out of 31. With all the trades they have the 49ers with a lot of day 2 and early day 3 picks, which makes a lot of sense to me. Those are rounds where you can add a lot of good talent that can be backups/ role players for a year or two and develop into good starters.

    They have the 49ers taking Blacklock at 22, which could happen, but I think it is far more likely they would take Reagor. They also have a pretty strong run on WRs happening in the 1st round with 6 taken overall, which I also think is quite likely, and a reason why the 49ers wouldn’t wait to take Reagor at 31 or in the 2nd round.

  42. It looks like the spam-bots just love that “Mayock on Blaine Gabbert: ‘He’s a top-one pick’” topic. Grant, what do you think? Should Niners use one of their 2 first round picks on Gabbert?

  43. What will be the 49er draft strategy? I am glad there are no leaks, and the Niners are keeping their cards close to their vest.
    .
    However, I also think there have been many private discussions on trades, and am hearkened to see multiple trade back mocks and scenarios being presented, even by the pundits.
    .
    Denver, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Minnesota, Baltimore, Indy, and Philly have all been speculated to have trade up scenarios. Denver and Miami may be the most probable trade partners, because they have lots of draft capital. While Minnesota and Baltimore may have good compensation, I really do not want the Niners to help them get better, just like I preferred the Niners not to have traded Trent Brown to the Pats, who helped them win a ring.
    .
    Fortunately, John Lynch is a very astute person, and can see the advantages of having 4 picks in the first 4 rounds, and get 4 good players, instead of only 2. Some say the 2 first round picks will be elite, but I have seen over the years, that it is better to have more selections, instead of a few, because there is no guarantee that a first round pick will become elite. Just look at Solomon Thomas and Reuben Foster.
    .
    I do see that some teams may want to trade up, because there are 4 OL, 3WRs and CJ Henderson who may be coveted by another team, but who are not going to be able to select, because they are too far back.
    .
    Maybe the Niners may be content taking Kinlaw or Henderson, or one of those OL and WRs, but trading back will allow the Niners to select a CB, DT, OL and WR, not just 2 of them.
    .
    The Niners were hamstrung by not having picks in the second, third, and 4th rounds, but with the 13th pick from the Buckner trade, the Niners have good draft capital to be able to stay in the first round, but trade back to get more picks. There will be teams wanting to move back to the first round, to select possibly a QB, so the Niners may have multiple offers.
    .
    One team that may move up is New Orleans, if the Niners can manage to move back to 18 with the Dolphins. They may want to leapfrog in front of the Patriots, if Love or Eason are still available. At 24, the Niners would have a good selection for many WR, OL, CB and DL players. It all depends who falls before them. However, I would be content with one trade back with the 13th pick with the Dolphins, because they have the draft picks to move up with. The Dolphins could select one of the top 4 OL, which they need to protect their new QB.
    .
    If the Niners had only one trade to do, they might achieve their goal of getting picks in the second, third and 4th rounds by trading with the Broncos. The Niners would off their 31st and 176th picks for the Broncos 46th, 95th and 118th picks.
    .
    Another one trade deal might entail trading back further with the Dolphins. The Niners may trade their 13th pick for the Dolphins 26th, 56th and 70th picks. Maybe throw in Tevin Coleman plus CJB, or a 2021 third round pick to balance it out.
    .
    I know, I know, they may just stick with their original picks and be happy with them, but I think JL sees the talent and depth of this draft, so he will be in full ‘Trader Bill’ mode.

  44. Tweets by ‎@grantcohn

    Grant Cohn
    @grantcohn
    Big news! I have left The Press Democrat and am now running All49ers for Sports Illustrated. Hoo Hah! You can read me starting today at http://si.com/nfl/49ers .

        1. First day back on the site since before the SB.

          Finally something to celebrate.

          Don’t expect this to be a fan run site, but at least someone who is level headed and not a complete tool…kinda like what we got from everyone before Grant.

          Oh and does this mean Grants burner account (Seb) will leave too?

      1. Will Grant honor your memory by insuring your legendary status carries over to the next steward?

        1. Well, I will stay with the local blog, but also follow Grant’s writing wherever he goes.
          .
          I am glad he is now getting a national gig. His writing is getting recognized and rewarded.
          .
          Legends never die…..;p

          1. His writing is trash.

            He doesn’t report.

            He thinks he’s stirring a pot, sad part was there was nothing in the pot to stir.

            SI will learn soon enough.

            And by all means, you are free to leave and never return Seb, you will not be missed.

          2. “ Well, I will stay with the local blog”

            Hopefully you reconsider and F off finally and for good!

    4. And he lets us, his dedicated PD readers for years, know by twitter rather than a posting here?

      Thanks for nothing Grant. Don’t let the door hit you you know where.

      1. OK, that was a little harsh. Good luck in your stepping stone Grant.

        But still, when are you going to announce here? Don’tcha think we’re owed something? Twitter can be cruel, unlike us. :)

        1. You/we/whatever most certainly are owed something. At the very least, a post saying “Farewell, here is what’s going to happen with this place next”.

  45. Yeah I think a lot of people were getting tired of the TMZ type of content we were getting. No accurate information EVER. Spreading rumors that never were accurate. It was time for a change.

    1. Ironic. The current lead article at http://si.com/nfl/49ers :

      The quarterback situation of the team is one that continues to be thrown out there week-after-week. Jimmy Garoppolo has constantly been at the forefront of anyone who criticizes the Niners. He apparently has been deemed as the weak link of the team.

      Despite the far-fetched slander, the quarterback situation of the 49ers is strong. And if you compare theirs with the other teams in the league, then it looks even brighter.

      Does SI realize they’ve hired the farthest-fetched slanderer?

      2. Love that the person who deems him the weak link on the team is acting as if it wasn’t he who said this, and its just some whispers going around in special circles and only just now is Grant aware of these whispers, with no clue as to where they might have come from…

        Its this level of making himself his own source that will never be missed.

    2. Grant may have lost any 49ers inside info connections after his childish remark about Anthony “Bam” Davis years ago. I would venture that Grant did not receive a warm welcome around 49ers headquarters.

  46. Congratulations on taking the next step Grant. Hopefully there will be a season to report on this year.

        1. No offense, we need new blood.
          However, if Seb is banned I’ll make a generous donation to the blog and your campaign!

              3. George,
                It would be tantamount to going from Porterhouse steak to Ground Beef.
                Maiocco is good where he’s at.

                Also, this site has been and always will be popular because of the posters who daily frequent here.

                The next moderator only needs to give us the “real” Inside the 49ers information, set up proper comments parameters and be sure to uphold them.

              4. Katie NoLan, if she weren’t a Pats fan.
                Mina Kime, if she weren’t a Seahags fan.
                Lisa Ann?

              5. Katie NoLan, if she weren’t a Pats fan.
                Mina Kime, if she weren’t a Seahags fan.
                Lisa Ann?

                No on Lisa Ann, Jimmy has already been in enough trouble with a lesser known porn star.

  47. Grant was leaving breadcrumbs

    You guys didn’t believe me. Now it’s too late.

    @grantcohn

  48. Hammer would be a good choice to run the blog, but it would be unlike other blogs. Jack is a bit unconventional and sometimes I find his reasoning baffeling; however, he almost always has reasons (whether one agrees or not) and does try to cite data to support his positions. His unconventional approach provides a different perspective and can also result in a better understanding of rules of thumb and conventions/protocol and when they don’t apply. Hammer has my vote.

    My only caveat is that if Scooter or Rocket want to run the blog, I’d give them my vote. Maybe Rocket will come back now.

        1. Ha! Didn’t realise I came across as an old dude! I clearly spend too much time on here ? but no, retirement is not on the horizon any time soon ☺

  49. Grant lost control of this blog site some time ago. He allowed political quarrels to take place on a football forum and stood by while some bloggers engaged in ridiculous 3rd grade banter.

    Hopefully he will now need to answer to higher authority figures that will sharpen his skills.
    Good luck, Grant

    1. They need someone who, at the very least, will moderate the blog and eliminate the grade school posters. Grant refused to moderate and actually was guilty of many of the childish posts.

    2. AES
      * I’m down with someone taking over the blog that’s willing to clean up both the childish banter, as well as the
      political diatribes.
      * Also, keep the posts under 100 words.

  50. As I think about Grant leaving the blog, I’m wondering:

    1) Will the PD even allow the blog to continue.
    2) Is the PD planning to replace Grant. If so, it will most likely be with a fresh face out of college because of budget limitations.
    3) Maybe the PD will consider a part-time position so if an experienced blogger here wants the position they can apply.

    1. 1) Will the PD even allow the blog to continue

      They should. Outside of NN, it’s always gotten the most responses in Ninerdom. And it’s not like they have huge operating costs in a state of the art blogging platform.

    2. Grant is the the 3rd or 4th person to run the blog since I started here. It will continue.

      1. Probably. But for those high fiving about Grant leaving, this could well be a case of careful what you wish for.

        I wonder if PD will take the opportunity to clean up the blog? Quite frankly, for a while now this blog has become a cesspool. And that had nothing to do with Grant.

        1. I wonder if PD will take the opportunity to clean up the blog? Quite frankly, for a while now this blog has become a cesspool. And that had nothing to do with Grant.

          As someone who has, I’m sorry to say, participated in plenty of OT digressions here, I’d welcome a more strict moderation management. And even if my passions were to get the best of me and find myself locked out or banned I’d still come to the blog in read-only mode. That Grant no longer produces the lead articles is a major plus.

        2. “…..for those high five ing…”
          More than willing to take my chances.
          “….nothing to do with Grant.”
          Lack of leadership a failure of omission.

          1. … eh. I think it can be modified to remove likes/up votes, which would be for the best. At least it’s account-based I suppose.

        4. It has everything to do with Grant. He could have moderated and “policed” his blog from the start and it would never have become a cesspool.

          1. Yeah, true, it is too much to expect grown ups to act like adults. PD could certainly do with someone that gets rid of the trolls.

  52. Well, firstly, congratulations to Grant on the new opportunity. It takes some guts to make moves like that.

    However, I have to agree with Rib (I know, I feel icky just typing that out). This place, I believe, predates Grant. It’s a long-established community. Grant took over the blog, and was the Head of it. He has an obligation, I believe, to inform the community of things happening regarding the future of the blog. It’s extremely poor form to fail to address this community whatsoever. For all we know this site could be taken down by tomorrow. People over the years have formed relationships, and at the very VERY least they deserve some time to make preparations for being able to stay in touch with others they grew to like over the years.

    It’s a very disappointing attitude from Grant and one that is becoming increasingly defining of him. It’s like he shirks responsibility entirely, like it’s beneath him to even post here. I’ve bookmarked his new site, but honestly unless there is significant community migration from here to there I don’t see myself engaging with that a lot. And to be Frank, I’ve lost a lot of respect for Grant as a person over this handling. Just what an awful way to treat a community you helped foster.

    I hope this site can continue in some form. No real opinions on who or what that should be or look like. But in the event that it’s not, and that this is the end, then I’d like to say I’ve enjoyed my time here a lot, as combatative as it often can be (in fact, that’s part of the reason why I enjoy it). I’ve been a frequent forum user for about ten years now, and almost all of the communities I used to actively partake in are long gone now, forever lost to the abyss. I’m sadly used to it but I’ll miss it all the same. The likes of NN just doesn’t have the same feel to it. But nothing to be done about it I guess, we’ll see what happens.

    1. You are starting to sound eerily similar to that other mouth piece rambling fool Seb.
      Maybe the both of you can take your estrogen induced rants and finally blow away.
      Some of you think this forum is for therapy. Grown a pair and STFU!

      1. Huh? Are you feeling okay? You’ve taken a lot more from what I said, than what was actually there dude. Like I said, I’d miss this place, but I’m perfectly capable of existing without it lol. You come here far more regularly than I do.

      2. Prime, you and Seb should co-host. Would love to see if you end up killing each other.

        1. Nearly all sports shows contain adversary co-hosts so it might work ? … for a day or two at least. ?

  53. Well, if SI was looking for an abrasive edge they my have found their man.
    Maybe they can send one of their writers and a 7th rd pick to replace Grant.

    1. I am curious to know if SI’s blog has more hits than this one?
      I have frequented many niner message boards but this one has much more fan interaction than most.

      Perhaps just having SI in the label will get the blog more reads, but I am not sure about the hit count.

  54. I dashed off an email to the PD sports editor, John Schlegel

    Hi John,

    As one of the dedicated readers of the Inside the 49ers feature / blog for many years, I and the entire IT49 community were surprised that the most recent host – Grant Cohn – has departed, immediately it seems. The announcement was made by Grant on twitter, we’ve yet to see anything posted to this effect on Inside the 49ers. Can you or someone at PD give us some kind of direction on the future of the blog? Whether/if you’ve hired a future moderator or perhaps are taking applications for the position?

    Thanks much,
    [me]

    1. LOL, Grant Ghosted the blog. Hilarious ?
      Wonder if his new gig will last longer than his Bleacher Report Drive-by?
      If not, there’s always the NY Post or Daily News.

  56. On a football related note, 49ers re-signed Verrett and Johnson to 1-year deals. Probably just for competition in camp, but makes me question whether the team will look at CB early in the draft.

    Also see Peter King is saying the 49ers badly want a space eating DT, and that Kinlaw may be their guy. That makes little sense to me. I’m sure they want to add a DT, but not sure why it would be a space eating variety for the type of D they play, nor why they would want to draft such a player as high as 13.

    1. Not gonna draft a space eater. Kocurek wants one gapping penetrators. The word “read” is a four letter work.

      Not gonna draft a cb that high either. Not how they operate.

      Gonna be an ot, wr, or trade down at #13.

    2. Peter King’s statement seems off to me.
      SF prefers penetrating Dlinemen and Kinlaw is that… but I would not think of him as a space eater.

      Additionally, if SF drafted him to be a space eater, I think they would be sorely disapointed.

  57. All of whatever little I’ve learned from following three decades of draft may be summarized in a few sentences:

    (1) As far as possible, good GMs never go into a draft with desperate “needs”. The free agency is when they plug the holes, and occasionally through trades. Draft is to make the team better for the future within the cap.

    (2) Pretty much all GMs stick to their draft board. Each team generally grades 15-20 players as “first round”. If those players are gone, GMs would happily trade down and collect 2-5 round picks if a trade is possible. The difference is made by front offices that have good understanding of other teams’ needs, have good working relationships with other front offices, and can propose and execute deals in the high-pressure, high-speed environment of a draft room. The Shanalynch team is good at that.

    Shanalynch started their first 2-3 drafts with more desperate needs that FA could meet because of talent pool limitations. Now they have a very good team with no pressing needs. I would imagine they would trade down as much as possible in exchange of round 2-4 picks while picking up one of their first round impact player if available. I do not see them drafting two first players at their current positions and then sitting pat till fifth round.

  58. Since this may be the end of the blog:
    LAST MOCK DRAFT BEFORE THE DRAFT:
    #13: OT Andrew Thomas, Iowa
    9ers trade CB Ahkello Weatherspoon to Atlanta for #16
    #16 RB Henry Ruggs III, Ala.
    9ers trade #31 to Jacksonville for #42 plus 2021 3rd Rd. draft pick
    #42 OC Cesar Ruiz, Mich.
    9ers trade RB Matt Breida to TB for #45
    #45 CB Bryce Hall, Virginia
    9ers trade WR Dante Pettis to Dallas for #127
    #127 LB Logan Wilson, Wyo.
    #156 DE James Lynch, Baylor
    9ers grade WR Marquise Goodwin to Chicago for #163
    #163 RB/WR Antonio Gibson, Memphis
    #210 CB Reggie Robinson, Tulsa
    #217 K Rodrigo Blankenship, Georgia
    #245 QB Bryce Perkins, Virginia

      1. Prime Time
        * Atlanta released CB Desmond Trufant, leaving a major hole at CB. The Jaguars traded up and and drafted CJ Henderson, forcing Dallas to move up for CB Kristian Fulton. That left Cameron Dantzler, who ran a 4.64s 40. Atlanta looked at the tape on Witherspoon, Prior to his foot injury and made the trade.

          1. Scooter
            “Pipe dream. If he was worth pick 16 the 49ers should keep him.”
            * Trading him now saves $2.1 million. How much is he worth riding the pine?
            * By trading Spoon, Breida, Pettis and Goodwin now, the 9ers save >$10.2 Million and pays for the new 2020 rookies.

            1. If he’s worth pick 16, why is he riding the pine? Surely you realise no team is giving up a high pick, let alone a mid first round pick, for a former 3rd round pick that heading into his 4th season has yet to put together more than a handful of consecutive decent games, has been completely exposed and picked on in many others, has been hooked or demoted from the starting lineup due to performance a few times over the past two years, and now finds himself “riding the pine” on a team that many think should be looking to add CBs. Or maybe you don’t, in which case, feel free to keep dreaming of trading him for a 1st rounder and enjoy your time in Seb-land.

              2. Geep, In order to be entirely Seb-land you’d have to package spoon with a couple of other players and do the deal with Denver :)

              3. Mock draft with trades of players.
                .
                The Niners could trade Nick Mullens and Tevin Coleman to the Chargers for a third round pick. The Niners would ask for a second round pick, but settle for a third(71). This would allow the Chargers to pass on a QB and RB with the first 2 picks, so they might go BPA on defense.
                ,
                The Niners could trade Ahkello Witherspoon to the Falcons for a 4th round pick(119). getting a first round pick for AW is delusional, a 4th round pick is reasonable.
                .
                The Niners could trade back from 31 with the Broncos. They would give up their 46th and 77th picks, for the Niners 31st pick, and help balance out the trade by including Marquise Goodwin in the deal.
                .
                This would accomplish the goal of getting second, third(2) and 4th round picks, and would still have the 13th pick. If the list of players that the Niners want at 13 are all taken, the Niners should trade back. I expect Javon Kinlaw, Jerry Jeudy and Andrew CeeDee Lamb to be gone by then, so the Niners move back with the Dolphins, who would be eager to use some of their draft capital to move up. The Niners would trade the 13th pick for the Dolphins 18th and 70th picks. The Dolphins may be targeting Andrew Thomas at 13, to protect Tua.
                .
                The Niners would trade away their 13th and 31st picks, along with Nick Mullens, Tevin Coleman, Ahkello Witherspoon and Marquise Goodwin. They Niners would end up with pick numbers 18, 46, 70, 71, 77, 119, 156, 176, 210, 217 and 245.
                .
                Players ranked at 69- 82 include- Jordan Elliot DT, KJ Hamler WR, Terrell Burgess S, Nick Harris OL, Akeem Davis Gaither LB, Jonathan Greenard DE, Tyler Biadasz OL, Adam Trautmen TE, Amik Robertson CB, Matt Hennessy OL, Tyler Johnson WR, Troy Pride CB, Hunter Bryant TE and Chase Claypool WR, so that may be the sweet spot of the draft.
                .
                Using the CBS Big Board, and trying to pick within 5 of each ranking, the Niners could choose-
                18- Yetur Gros-Matos DE. BPA at that spot.
                37- Denzel Mims WR
                46- Austin Jackson OT
                70- Matt Hennessy C/G
                71- Troy Pride CB
                77- Chase Claypool WR
                119- Davon Hamilton NT
                156- AJ Dillon RB
                176- Joe Reed WR/KR
                210- Stephen Sullivan TE
                217- Reggie Robinson CB
                245- Mike Owenu OG

              5. Seb:

                The Niners could trade Nick Mullens

                and no QBs on any of your picks, traded back or not. We go into the season with CJB as the only other QB? No bueno!

              6. Rib, they should target UDFAs. I like Khalil Tate, who I think KS could coach up. It is more important to select players in positions of need. The Niners have JG, so there is little need, and if Mullens and Coleman can garner a third round pick, that would be a Boon. Trading away players will create spots for the draftees to fill.
                .
                Cole MacDonald is ranked 268, out of the draft, which stops at 255. Other later QBs ranked are Steve Montez, Nate Stanley, Shea Patterson, Mason Fine, Kelley Bryant and Khalil Tate
                .
                CJB may be adequate to back up JG, because ideally, the backup never plays. He knows the other players , knows the system and has command of the playbook. The new QB would just be for the backup competition in TC, if they have a TC.
                .
                You must admit that Witherspoon would possibly garner a 4th round pick more than a first round pick. I like Breida and his 5 yard average, so Coleman becomes expendable. The Chargers are in need of a RB after cutting Gordon. The Broncos want a speedy WR, so Goodwin fits the bill.
                .
                All 3 of those player trades target teams that have needs at those positions. Mullens has been a trade target for many other teams, and the Chargers have been deemed taking a QB in almost every mock. I think he would be an upgrade from Tyrod Taylor, who has proven pedestrian, at best.

              8. “ CJB may be adequate to back up JG, because ideally, the backup never plays“

                Stupidest thing I’ve ever read!

              10. Rib, they should target UDFAs

                Nah, they should keep Mullens. A bird in the hand that knows the system is worth a ton in the bush of bush league UDFAs

              11. Rib, Mullens will almost certainly be gone in 2021. He will not be content to sit behind JG. He wants to play.
                .
                The fact that several teams were asking for him, just shows that he does have worth. Mullens did defeat the Seahawks in 2018, so he can defeat a playoff team.
                .
                If the Niners can convert his potential into some player that will help this season, that is the best strategy, especially if they want to get back to the SB. I will not assume JG becomes injured, and hope he stays healthy, and can lead the Niners back so they can fulfill their quest.
                .
                Only losers like Prime would assume JG becomes injured, because that would make it twice as hard to win.

              12. I sure hope the new blogger gets rid of the big mouth, tough behind a keyboard, arrogant Trump wanna be’s, always the victim, narcissistic POS on here!

            1. Or for people bored out of their tree with nothing better to do.

              Witherspoon got benched twice last year. He’s been injury prone. Now he might be worth the 16th overall pick?

    2. I’d be cool with trading Witherspoon for a bag of dorritos. My mock is short and simple. Draft Ruggs at 13. Trade back at 31 and grab Zack Baun in round 2 and Damon Arnette in round 3. Rounds 5-7 I’ll leave that for Lynch finding another sleeper.

    3. Witherspoon ???? for a first LMAO…..dude is Pettis vs2…..frail and scared…..lucky to get a bag of popcorn

  59. I had a lengthy phone call (25 minutes ) with my two older brothers. Topics discussed : SI, Niners draft and the national embarrassment in the white house. SI was a hot commodity back in the day. Sports fans eagerly anticipated the arrival of the weekly issue on Thursday afternoon , the Sportsman of the Year and of course the Swimsuit issue. But along came the internet and ESPN which pretty much spelled doom for SI. Does anyone still get a print subscription or online? If I did subscribe to a sports site it would be the Athletic . I’ve been hearing good things about the RB from Apalachian State. Do we pull the trigger early day 3 ? I guess the Chargers are also interested.
    Looks like the Whitehouse has scrapped the bottom in appointing every fraudster available to the “reopen America committee. ” Nov 3/Jan 20 can’t come soon enough.

    2. I used to read Dr. Z columns online until he had a stroke in 2008 and couldn’t write anymore.

  61. This blog will almost surely continue to generate clicks for the PD, but hopes for a technology makeover are wishful thinking.
    #PressDemoSteamPunk

    1. Mood, what position of need bumps WR out of a round one pick? Or are you saying trade out of round one entirely?

      1. Rib,

        I’m trying to understand how Shanalynch may be thinking. As I wrote in my earlier comment above, GMs generally do not go into draft with holes in the roster (unless they have expansion team-level talent as was the case for 2017 Niners). They generally use FA and trades to plug holes, and then draft for the future and for depth.

        Assuming that this hypothesis is valid, would you agree that Kyle believes that the Niners currently have a decent pass catching corps for next season? I’m thinking that if Kyle believed otherwise, they would have shed some more players to create cap space to re-sign Sanders on a 2-year contract.

        That line of thought would indicate to me that they would look for value in a deep WR class somewhere in the second round. Lamb or Ruggs at 13 may be less valuable than Pittman and a third round pick, e.g, a CB. What do you think?

        1. They generally use FA and trades to plug holes, and then draft for the future and for depth.

          Except for first rounders, those have to be day one starter material.

          would you agree that Kyle believes that the Niners currently have a decent pass catching corps for next season?

          That’s a good question. No, I don’t. I don’t think we can argue against they are returning only two proven starters, deebo and KB (and with bourne you could say “proven” is a stretch). The rest of the squad either medical question marks or if Kyle truly believed in them they would have seen the field more. Unless the team knows more about the medical progress of Hurd and Taylor than we do, I think they see a definite hole. As for letting Sanders walk, if they weren’t going to pay his FA contract, they’re not going to FA sign someone similar. I’d argue Kyle thinks there must be rookie contract replacement for his talent in this draft. The question is where? Top 3? Somewhere in that deep 25? Remember, this guy has to be starter level, it’s not someone they can take a flier on.

          1. Except for first rounders, those have to be day one starter material.

            True, but I can also see players taken in the 25-32 range by good teams may start off in support roles (D-line rotation, sub-packages for DBs, etc.).

            As for letting Sanders walk, if they weren’t going to pay his FA contract, they’re not going to FA sign someone similar.

            I was making the point that if Kyle thought that the receiver corps was inadequate, he’d have kept Sanders on a contract like the one he signed with the Saints, even if it meant re-structuring Jimmy G’s contract and cutting Goodwin outright. I’m pretty confident that he’s not going into the draft thinking “I gotta pick a starting receiver in this draft for me to run my offense in 2020 as I want it”.

            No, I don’t. I don’t think we can argue against they are returning only two proven starters, deebo and KB (and with bourne you could say “proven” is a stretch).

            I won’t be surprised if Kyle thinks that they have 4 proven receivers in Debo, Bourne, Taylor and Benjamin (depending on the definition of “proven”). The organization is in a much better position to evaluate health of players, especially Hurd’s situation. Taylor’s problem was infection from a relatively minor foot surgery. That infection needed another 3-4 surgeries to fix. It’s not a chronic issue.

            Remember, this guy has to be starter level, it’s not someone they can take a flier on.

            Not sure pick of which round you’d define as “flier”. Last season among receivers, the second and third round picks outperformed the first round picks. Historically, receivers have taken at least 2 seasons to develop as a starter, although the game has changed and the receivers are more NFL-ready these days.

            1. I won’t be surprised if Kyle thinks that they have 4 proven receivers in Debo, Bourne, Taylor and Benjamin (depending on the definition of “proven”).

              I would, especially when you consider the draft capital they used to bring in Sanders.

              1. That was last off-season. Debo was “unproven” and Bourne was not as developed as he is now. Taylor, too, had shown improvement over 2018 season in TC.

                Kyle appears to view WRs as he treats RBs, basically chess pieces — role players with complementary skills, but with some essential traits. He once stated bluntly in an interview that unless a receiver is of the exceptional level of Julio Jones, he can find a range of receivers he can work with. I can see him going for value by trading down. This draft is going to be helpful in understanding his priorities — now that the Niners are one of the best teams in the league.

              2. That was last off-season.

                Sorry, that was last October, not off-seasonr. I think the Pettis situation forced the move since Kittle was getting all the attention. Debo was a rookie. Sanders was also there for the leadership role.

              3. Shanny isn’t foolish enough to count on Taylor. Dude hasn’t played in 2 years. Bourne is a good 4th wr and I think that’s his ceiling. After Deebo, the cupboard is extremely bare.

                You’re right. That’s why he’s targeting Reagor in the 20’s. He won’t give a rip about what the pundits say.

  63. Geez, I missed a few days and Grant’s gone.

    Well deserved bro. Always looking to stir the pot, but put in the work. Congrats, its been awesome following you on PD, i’m hoping for much more success in your career. Keep workin’ homie. Not much of an SI fan, but I’ll definitely check you out.

    1. Hopefully he brings SI some credibility when it comes to football, because they’ve been one of the worst informed.

      1. He does know the team pretty well but I am not sure a blogger who bases most of his blogs on controversies and conspiracy theories will bring much credibility. Honestly, I am not even sure he will get more hits there… I haven’t read an SI article in a long time.

        1. SI is going through some real drama with layoffs and terminations. Grant may end up discovering that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side….

        2. Looking at previous columns in https://www.si.com/nfl/49ers/ reader response averaged less than zero comments. Grant’s first entry pulled in 16, so maybe SI views that as a win if that’s the metric that produced Grant’s hiring. 16 may also represent a high water mark as the news of Grants relocation has just made it’s way through the blogosphere.

  64. Since Grant will no longer be writing articles for the blog, a proposal for a consensus on:
    Draft pick #13:
    A) Should the 9ers trade up? (using an existing 9er player)? If so, for who?
    B) Should the 9ers draft a player with #13? If so, for who?
    C) Should the 9ers trade down? If so, for who?

    Draft pick #31:
    A) Should the 9ers trade up? ( using #31 + a 9er player)? If so, for who?
    B) Should the 9ers draft a player with #31? If so, who?
    C) Should the 9ers trade down? If so, for who?

    1. a proposal for a consensus

      A consensus? Geep, while admirable you know you are going to get as many different names as you do responses ?.

      As I don’t follow college ball, I’m not naming specific names, but pick #1 should also be a day one starter, or at least a regular playing time platoon member. They are down one member of last years WR platoon, so that’s where go with 13- one of those top 3 WRs (don’t trade back if one of those are there at 13). Naturally DL is also down one, but that’s a deeper group than WR, IMO. #31, or a few places traded back from there – defense – CB or DL (secondary because that group outside of a year older Sherman is still shaky, and will Defo replacement by committee pan out?). Of course, any retirement announcements out of say, Staley, would upend all of this.

    2. Trade down at 13.
      I dont see a Julio Jones in this class and while I believe there is a clear top 2, the drop off is not crazy from 3 through 10 imo.

      In fact, I would likely trade out of the first round all together with both picks. In the 2nd you could likely pick up Ruiz or Jackson to fill in at center/guard. Grab a wr like Hamler, Pittman, Raeger or Aiyuk and either a corner or DLineman.

      I was messing around with this on the draft networks draft machine and ended up with
      Ross Blacklock, KJ Hamler, Damon Arnette, Shadiq Charles and Michael Pittman in the first 5 rounds.
      This is not my best case as I was really hoping for Jonah Jackson or Ruiz but I can’t complain too much as this fills some holes and provides the team with potentially 3-4 starters within the next 2 years.

    3. With the 13th pick, I say trade back (if possible) for a later 1st and additional picks in the 2nd and 3rd.

      This draft class is DEEP at WR, they can get a legit talent in the 2nd or 3rd round, to match up with Deebo (since we can’t bank on Hurd or Taylor coming back and progressing).

      Also, get oline help at tackle that can be a RT in the future when Joe retires and MM moves to LT.

      I’d also say they need to shore up the DLine as the loss of DF and RD leaves two holes in the rotation. Maybe Thomas can become a guy who can eat up two lineman, ala Cowboy, and that will allow Bosa to eat.

      I think they can address all of these with a first in the 20s, their 1st at 31, a 2nd and 3rd they picked up.

    4. Draft Pick #13:
      What I would do: If Jeudy is there, draft Jeudy. If not, then trade back to pick up 2nd, 3rd round picks (which would mean trading #13 for a late first, early second). For who? I’ll do a new mock soon.

      Draft Pick #31:
      Draft a player if you trade pick #13. List includes Cleveland, Ruiz, Mims, Blacklock. Dark Horses: Madubuike, Fulton, and Marlon Davidson.

    5. Similar to Pot Kettle – if Jeudy is there take him at 13. Otherwise trade back if possible. Its not so much about a specific “who” you are trading back for, as it is how much you get in return. But the guy I suspect they would draft after a trade back (or possibly more than one trade back) is Jalen Reagor.

      At 31, depends to some degree what happens with 13. But even if they trade back from 13 I think trading back from 31 makes sense, unless someone they really like falls to 31. Again, not so much about a specific “who” you are trading back for, as it is how much you get in return.

      The aim with the trade backs would be to draft as many of the following positions as possible before the end of round 4, ideally with most of those picks on day 1 and 2: WR, DT, DE, OT, CB, S and TE. While the 49ers roster is pretty stacked in terms of starters and key backups, there are still areas of the team that either need better backups/ competition for starting roles or will have key guys coming off contract soon that the team will need to replace. Trading back will still let them add a first round talent but also replenish the roster with some good day 2 talent.

      1. Scooter
        Thanks for your response. I agree with Jeudy (or one of the top three). If not there, trade back for value.
        Both you and Razor like Jalen Reagor. I can’t see taking him over Ruggs 3, but will look at his video again.
        I also don’t see Staley retiring this year and missing out on his last chance for a ring, but I guess there’s always
        a chance?

        1. It’s more that I think Shanahan will like Reagor than I do. There are other WRs I prefer.

  65. Good that Panthers extended CMac and can build the offense around him. This contract contributes to the parameters of Kittle’s contract, IMO. Both are pass-catching offensive weapons who transcend their respective positions and are the best players on offense in their teams. For Kittle, I can see something like 5 years, $70-75M with $35M guaranteed.

  66. I don’t understand it. Our moderator forsakes us and still plenty of postings/discussions going on. How can that be?

  67. Pot…Kettle
    I think LV Raiders take WR Jeudy @ #12, but if he’s still there, I can see Lynch taking him
    #31: Agree, trade down and draft OC Ruiz. I see that as the biggest need. Can’t see Staley passing up his last
    chance for a right.
    TKS for your input.

  68. 9er 2020 draft #13 and #31
    Jets take Cee Dee Lamb at # 11 and the LV Raider take WR Jerry Judy at #12
    #13: 9er trade down with Atlanta for #16, #78
    #16: WR Henry Ruggs III, Ala.
    31: 9ers trade down with CLE for #41 and #97
    #41: OC Cesar Ruiz, Mich.

    1. George, or anyone for that matter, can you explain to me the logic behind not wanting to “overshadow” the backup wr’s? I think Grant will fit in nicely there at SI….

      1. I don’t like that logic. But his first point makes sense, and I was thinking about it myself. Assuming minimized practice opportunities, rookie WRs probably won’t get to speed until later in the season. So how does that influence one’s thinking about this draft? Based on that logic, the WRs they already have are better bets to produce early. I realize a few have been injured, and then there’s Pettis, but even he looks better in this light. If we’re “win now,” they might be better off trading for a vet to replace Sanders, although I don’t know who’s within reach. Is a trade for Beckham in the works? Not saying that but he might be available and affordable in some way. The CV situation might provide more impetus for trading back or using early picks on a lineman, edge rusher or running back. Just trying to use common sense.

        1. I think if you go into your war room with that kind of mindset, you’re asking for trouble.

          1. I’m Kojak, man. NYPD. I’m asking for trouble all the time! : )

            Who loves ya’, baby?!

        2. So if rookies in 2020 are expected to underperform because of lack of OTAs and possibly a shortened training camp, is there some logic to the idea that first round picks allow teams to get that 5th year option. Because the first year might be somewhat of a waste for many of the rookies selected in the first round, then it will take them longer to develop and thus having the 5th year option might look good. OTOH, if you use a kind of present-worth analysis, then the 2020 1st rounders are not as valuable as previous year 1st rounders because the first year is likely a waste. Again, OTOH, the 2020 1st rounders might be more valuable than 2021 1st rounders because there might not be a college season at all in 2020.

          1. I think players that are “pro ready” will be in higher demand early than some other years where teams might draft for upside/ elite physical traits.

            I think Grant does have a point that a truncated/ virtual offseason could impact on any rookie’s ability to step in and start/ contribute early this season. Especially a WR stepping into Shanahan’s offense. And with that in mind there is some sense to waiting a bit (I wouldn’t suggest round 5) before taking one given how strong and deep the WR class is. I don’t think Shanahan will wait long though. I still think he takes Reagor.

            May seem strange, but I actually think a truncated/ virtual offseason helps the 49ers, relative to other teams (or impacts them less is probably the better way of terming it). They are heading into the 4th year of the same systems on offense and defense, and returning almost all their starters from last year. Plus they have guys that could step in and start for the guys that have gone that were with the team last year. They are likely in a good position to allow rookies to play more of a support/ depth role most of the season compared to other teams.

            1. I think players that are “pro ready” will be in higher demand early than some other years where teams might draft for upside/ elite physical traits.

              If true, that would mean Wills will be the first OT to come off the board.

              Plus they have guys that could step in and start for the guys that have gone that were with the team last year.

              All except Sanders.

              1. No, they have guys that can step in and start at WR as well. They won’t be as good as Sanders, but they made do without Sanders last year and were undefeated for half a season. They’ll have Taylor (and Hurd) back as well, plus a more experienced Deebo, so the WR group will actually be stronger than the one they had for the first half of last season.

                By the end of the year they would want someone that is the undisputed starter opposite Deebo, but they can make do while a rookie develops like Deebo did last year.

              2. They’ll have Taylor (and Hurd) back as well.

                Will they? I’m not as confident in that assertion as you seem to be.

                By the end of the year they would want someone that is the undisputed starter opposite Deebo, but they can make do while a rookie develops like Deebo did last year.

                Absolutely, but I’d put the onus on the HC to get the most out of a kid like Reagor all year long. Anything, and I mean anything you get out of players like, Taylor, Hurd, Pettis, et. al, is a bonus.

              3. Scooter what gives you the confidence that Taylor and Hurd will step in next year and contribute?

              4. Is there anything you have heard that suggests Taylor won’t be back? Hurd, sure, he’s a question mark, but even just having Taylor back would be an improvement on what they had to start last year. And if he isn’t… then they have the same guys they started last year with and went undefeated for half a season. The only player they have lost from last years group is the one they picked up mid year.

                So yes, the team absolutely is in a position where they don’t need to have a rookie WR come in and start right away.

                And yes, if they drafted Reagor (which I think they will) they probably could find ways to incorporate him from the get go. But it would likely be mostly gadget plays while he learns the offense and develops. Same can be said of just about any rookie WR though. They have guys that can start if needed while any rookie WR develops.

              5. The only player they have lost from last years group is the one they picked up mid year

                And there was a pretty good reason they picked up that person.

                the team absolutely is in a position where they don’t need to have a rookie WR come in and start right away.

                Scooter, your absolutism rests on a lot of things we just don’t know, won’t or can’t know for some time. Taylor and Hurd back? Neither of those is an absolute.

              6. Scooter: I hear what you are saying and in a vacuum (i.e. just comparing the 49ers of 2020 with the 49ers of 2019) I would agree with you. But I think you have to look at the 2020 WR corps in relation to the WR corps of other teams especially the teams in our division (it’s not just WRs, it’s the entire team). Arizona picking up Hopkins is a big deal and Metcalf exceeded expectations last year for the Seahawks, so expect even more this year, if he doesn’t get injured. Although not a WR, Greg Olsen might still have something left in the tank. The WRs on the 49ers as a whole are weak and in my opinion are the weakest in the division and one of the weakest in the entire NFL. Upgrades are needed and if it’s only through the draft, then I think a selection needs to made in the first round (or possibly top half 2nd round if a preferred player drops). Others have brought up the point that first-round WRs perform poorly relative to other positions. but I think the team has to “risk” making that selection. Other than Deebo, the 49ers really haven’t selected a winner at the WR position (Hurd is an unknown, Pettis is on his way out and Taylor can’t stay on the field). I find it surprising given KS was a WR himself.

              7. Taylor is tiny. Hasn’t played in 2 years. With that in mind, I think the more appropriate question would be; has there been anything lately to suggest he will be?

                Reagor is one of the smartest wr’s in this class. He knows how to change gears in routes, and use his quickness. Because of that, I believe he’s a guy that helps this team immediately at any wr position that Shanny asks him to line up at.

              8. Rib, how is saying “and if he (Taylor) isn’t (back)… then they have the same guys they started last year with and went undefeated for half a season” absolutism?

                Cubus, its the D that needs to stop other teams offenses. And opposing Ds that need to stop Shanahan’s. Even before getting Sanders, opposing Ds were having trouble stopping Shanahan’s offense last year.

                Razor, Taylor played in 2018 while recovering from back surgey. He recovered from that during the 2019 offseason but then missed last year with a foot injury, which has nothing to do with size. Due to the current environment he will now have even more time to recover, and less time to reinjure himself before the season starts. Guys get injured. It happens. No doubt guys will get injured again this year. Don’t know who it will be. But there is nothing to suggest Taylor’s past injuries will hamper him this year.

                You guys are all acting like I am suggesting the 49ers don’t need to add a WR. Go back and read what I said. Somehow me saying they don’t need a guy to start right away has gotten some knickers in a twist.

              9. Big guys beat up little guys, and Taylor is little and his body is beat up. I don’t think he was drafted to be anything but a backup with experience for a rebuilding team….

              10. Sure. At worst, when healthy he’s a backup that can start in a pinch. Like Bourne. At best he’s a reliable slot WR when healthy. Yes, durability is a concern, but at this point it is probably a pretty good chance he is able to play at the start of the year while a rookie develops. Hardly a controversial take I would have thought, but somehow it seems to have been taken as such.

              11. I agree with you, Scooter. What I can’t get on board with is waiting until day 3 to draft another backup wr that won’t hurt the other backup wr’s feelings. That was the genesis of my reply to George. I know you would never subscribe to that type of mentality….?

              12. Absolutely. I very much agree they should take a receiver day 2 at the latest. My comment was just that what Grant said about a rookie not contributing straight away due to likely delays in getting to learn the offense and therefore waiting a bit to take one has some merit. The team has guys that can start in the interim while a rookie learns. I wouldn’t wait until day 3 like Grant suggested, but potentially round 3 wouldn’t be such a bad thing. Lots of good WRs in this draft. They could even double dip. Adding say Bryan Edwards round 3 and Quez Watkins round 5 would be far from terrible.

              13. “Cubus, its the D that needs to stop other teams offenses. And opposing Ds that need to stop Shanahan’s. Even before getting Sanders, opposing Ds were having trouble stopping Shanahan’s offense last year.”

                Well, that’s not how I see it. I think pretty much everyone agrees that the D will take a small step back this year with the loss of Buckner. Therefore, I think the O needs to step it up more this year. How do they do that – by upgrading the weakest position, which is WR. Shanalynch certainly felt the need to do that last year by bringing in Sanders, for which they were willing to pay quite a bit in draft capital. Now that Sanders is gone I think they are still willing to “pay up” with draft capital in 9 to 10 days to get their guy.

              14. I hear what you are saying cubus, and it is something I have both said and agree with. You don’t compensate for the loss of Buck just by trying to replace him. The O will need to be relied on a bit more.

                However, my point is that this draft doesn’t only have 1 or 2 WRs that will be good NFL players. It is a really good group. Like in 2014, you can get guys that will be very good NFL players after round 1. Some of these guys, in the right offense, can probably start or at least be decent contributors from day 1 most years. But this isn’t a normal year. It will likely be hard even for the top 1-2 guys to start right away in Shanahan’s offense this year. Will they be an upgrade over Bourne and Taylor right away? Or even Goodwin if he comes back? Not so sure about that.

                And given the current environment, I think teams that bring a lot of continuity will have a leg up over the first half of the season. That in itself will help make up for the loss of Buckner and Sanders to some degree early on.

                I can definitely see the sense to waiting a little bit to get a WR from a very deep group if they will need development time anyway, and drafting guys at other positions that perhaps aren’t as hard to step into early on this team (e.g. DL) or provide better overall depth to the team for the future.

              15. What’s your definition of “deep”. It sounds obvious to me that it means a position where there are numerous, relatively speaking, very good players. However, when I read the way some people use this term, I get the feeling that they are simply talking about quantity of players without regards to “quality”. Not saying you’re doing that.

              16. When it comes to the draft I don’t think there can be any other meaning of deep than having a lot of quality prospects. Sometimes that may have a qualifier such as a deep day 3 group, i.e. there are a lot of options that look like good day 3 developmental type guys, but in this instance we are talking about an across the board deep group of WRs.

    2. “Grant today: Why Niners might wait until Round 5 to pick a WR”

      Not having Grant here is paying dividends already.

    1. Geep, 90% of Bayless schtick is act. He’s being paid big bucks for that act and has to deliver it. Grant, on the other hand is true believer. Maybe he’s an up and coming Bayless, and maybe SI sees him in that light, a low rent version for now, but he’s putting out his real thoughts. Whacked as they are, you got to give him credit for authenticity. All IMO of course.

      1. Ribico
        Agree with everything you said except Grant being a true believer. I think to some extent that’s true, but
        he stirs the $#(t to generate hits. Like Bayless, it’s his “schtick act.” Not too sure how much he really believes
        and how much is his act

  71. I don’t know about the rest of the country, but I’m sooooooooo ready for some football! I suspect many feel the same way.

    1. Don’t get your hopes up. The City of Santa Clara and the 49ers will be arguing over who has to disinfect the the stadium until 2022.

      1. I can imagine you calling him Fine & Dandy. Or Fine Spirits.

        You’ve probably read that the Niners talked to him. Trading Mullens?

        1. Ha! I can see it now. Grant asks Shanny the evening before draft day, “how ya doing?” Shanny replies, “doing Fine”. Grant’s next story is on how the 49ers will draft a quarterback from North Texas!

  73. Question: Does Grant’ new gig open up more opportunity for him to obtain inside information from the 49ers or will he continue to rely on his personal opinions and theories?

    Also, Grant’ sudden move from the PD seems to have left an unprepared exit plan for the PD. It would have been good for the PD to immediately hand the baton to someone else to moment Grant left.
    I hope that they are negotiating with Hammer or someone else to step in as quickly as possible.

    1. My opinion is Grant will be wearing a new logo but working the same locker room and coaching staff that he has previously alienated. More and better access? I doubt it.
      He already thinks he’s wiser and smarter than any owner, GM, or coach.
      Every previous moderator has had the class to offer a courteous farewell in their last post on the blog.
      Who knows why the PD wasn’t prepared with a replacement. Did Grant resign without notice? I dunno. PD is broke, until they feel some pain……..

      1. Grant’s already deleted comments on SI that have challenged his line of reasoning.

        1. No! Say it ain’t so! Haha.
          I’d love to see him promoted to covering the NY teams. That comment section would be rollicking entertainment.

    2. Does he keep a press pass? And if so, does SI spring for a travel budget to away games?

  74. I think the choice to move down from #13 is an easy one for Shanny if he’s looking for a level 3 receiver to open up everything underneath.

  75. Gil Brandt
    @Gil_Brandt
    · 3h
    20 percent of my top 50 players are WRs. My top 10 (overall rank):

    1. CeeDee Lamb (11)
    2. Jerry Jeudy (12)
    3. Henry Ruggs (16)
    4. Brandon Aiyuk (30)
    5. Justin Jefferson (31)
    6. Jalen Reagor (42)
    7. Lynn Bowden (44)
    8. Tee Higgins (45)
    9. Michael Pittman (46)
    10. Denzel Mims (49)

  76. Most teams have Claypool at the top of their TE board, and is expected to go in the 2nd round. I wonder if the 49ers are one of those teams.

    The OT from Auburn, Jack Driscoll is another that some teams have listed at guard/center and is moving up draft boards.

    Word on the street has the Bucs, Broncos and Falcons looking to move up. Both the Bucs and Broncos needing an OT, while it’s anyone’s guess who Dimitroff is pursuing….

      1. You may be on to something, Scooter. Reports are that Dimitroff wants Henderson or Kinlaw. Good news for our side.

    2. I’d be all in on Claypool for day 2. As a “positionless” WR/TE.
      Huge man, with great blocking skills. A huge catch radius and speed.
      Shanahan could turn him into a serious weapon.

        1. Razor
          Assuming Hurd is healthy, I agree and don’t see the 9ers drafting Claypool. But Shanahan does likes
          dual treat players and I can see Lynch taking RB/WR Antonio Gibson, Memphis, on day three

        2. I don’t feel very confident we’ll ever see Hurd on the field. Hope I’m wrong because I was excited to see what he could do.
          The fact that he still couldn’t even get on the plane to go watch the super bowl is concerning.

  77. Stimulus checks meant to boost the economy in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic may be delayed because President Donald Trump wants to have his name printed on them, the Washington Post reported Tuesday.

    The Treasury Department on Monday finalized a decision to have Trump’s name appear in the memo line of the $1,200 stimulus checks each American will receive as part of the coronavirus relief bill passed by Congress last month, the Washington Post reported.

    Engineers have to make a computer programming change and then test the system in order to insert Trump’s name on the checks, which will take time and likely cause a delay in the first batch of checks, two senior officials told the Washington Post.

    This will be the first time a president’s name will appear on a payment made by the Treasury Department, according to the Washington Post.

    2. Its really sweet of you to wear my pink panties. I have created you well, you whine at everything, you shout everyone down, you take orders from me very well, you blast Trump at every turn, you certainly are a good little boy. Now all you have to do is cut off that inch and become a girl.

    4. The Treasury Department on Monday finalized a decision to have Trump’s name appear in the memo line of the $1,200 stimulus checks each American will receive as part of the coronavirus relief bill

      Hey if the guy wants to remind every tax payer he’s the one associated with coronavirus, that’s fine with me.

      Mine came direct deposit, so I’m spared that polygraph gone wild scribble he calls a signature.

  78. What is the definition of a deep draft? There are twenty O Linemen in the top 100 prospects. 13 of them can run 5.1 or better forty yard times.
    .
    There are 22 WRs who can run a sub 4.5 second forty. There are 23 DBs who can run below 4.5 seconds. There are 12 DBs who can run 4.45 or better. There are 4 DBs who can run sub 4.4 second forties.
    .
    On the other hand, there are only 8 D linemen in the top 100 prospects, so it is kinda thin. Same thing with the LBs, with only 8 also in the top 100 players.
    .
    There are only 6 RBs in the top 100, 5 QBs in the top 100, and 4 TEs in the top 100, with the top TE being rated 60. Those positions are not deep in this draft.

    2. Tell me the last time you’ve seen a lineman run 40 yards at once in a game?

      Your level of disconnect from the game is mind blowing.

      1. You obviously think the Combine is a big waste of time.
        .
        It is a measurable, that helps confirm the game tape.
        .
        Seeing a 300 pound lineman run a 5 second forty is very impressive.

  79. Grant postulated a TV show with him and Anthony Davis.
    .
    That would go about as well as me and prime having a show. ;p
    .
    I like Grant’s on air delivery. He can think quick on his feet, and he can articulate a constant stream of consciousness with no hesitations or dead time. He can get his point across, and present a coherent argument.
    .
    I wish Grant well, but these are uncharted times. I am wondering if they will even have a season. Sounds like he is advancing in his career, and I hope my unstinting defense against his detractors may have helped.
    .
    I went on All49 and tried to listen to Jose Luis Sanchez. To be blunt, it could have been a lot better. He may have written some good insights, but his delivery was stilted, and hard to follow. He really needs to stop reading, and just start talking naturally. I felt like he had to stop and turn the page. Maybe he is new to this, but all I will say is- He has lots of room for improvement. I hope this critique was not too crushing, and it will not take much to make it way better.
    .
    Back to Grant, he may want to expand his horizons, and have a TV show, but Anthony Davis is not a good fit. If Grant wants a foil to counter his rapier like jabs and hot takes, maybe he could team up with Donte Whitner. I think it would be entertaining to see them cross swords in a battle of ideas, wits and temperaments. Whitner would have the gravitas like Steven A Smith, and Grant could go into a full Skip mode. Both would be good at articulating their viewpoints in terms that are easy to understand.

    1. Sounds like he is advancing in his career, and I hope my unstinting defense against his detractors may have helped.

      Sure, make it about you. A narcissist’s gotta narcissis.

      1. Just keeping it real. I made it a point to counter the screeds, saying Grant could not write. You never did.

      1. I was commenting on his new gig. Sounds like he will have some writers working under him, and he is carrying the hot take reputation with him.

          1. I still love the 49ers, and this is a local Niner blog.
            .
            Grant did not save me. He ignored blog protocols, and allowed racists like you attack ad nauseum.
            .
            I hope the new administrator will stop the vitriol and profanity, and eliminate the burner catfish accounts by upgrading the site.
            .
            I have always tried to be civil and polite, but also gave back just as much as I took.

            1. You came onto this blog with the wrong attitude and many posters left because of you. Grant privileged you instead of them. So yeah the catfish accounts, the name calling, you deserved all that!
              And don’t worry coward, there is more coming!

              1. Wrong attitude? I just want the Niners to win more rings. What is wrong with that?
                .
                You, on the other hand, seem to think you are superior to others, and can shout them down. Talk about being a narcissist. You are the embodiment of Trump. Your insults, bullying, name calling, your profanity and clear lack of knowledge, makes you and Trump like 2 peas in a pod.
                .
                This blog needs less of your hate and intolerance.
                .
                I will continue to be civil and polite to like minded posters. I heartily invite all posters to scroll past, and have refrained from engaging many posters, until addressed.

              2. There it is folks. The little coward who cried wolf.
                You came on this blog bloviating how you knew so much and predictions about everything. All the while, always wrong in every single circumstance football.
                You built a reputation for deafening long time posters, knowledgeable posters with your long winded non sense.
                With a pity party excuse for every proclamation and putting words in people’s mouth you are what backlash you get.
                Some tolerate it, some have left and some tell you daily what a POS you are. Get use to it!

              3. I have always stated that I am just a die hard faithful Niner fan. I have not demanded that they take my advice.
                .
                I have also stated things that did happen, like advocating them to use Richie James more, then see him catch his one target for a long gain. I advocated for Dwelley to become more involved in the passing game, then saw him catch 2 TDs the next game. I wanted them to elevate Jeff Wilson onto the active list, and saw him catch the game winning TD. I hoped Emmanuel Sanders might do a flea flicker, and the next game he threw one to Mostert.
                .
                It really must burn you up to see that I was right about those things, because those thoughts never crossed your little mind.
                .
                Cowards welch on bets.

              5. You just stated that I was wrong about every single circumstance football. I just gave examples when I was right.
                .
                I also advocated that the Niners consider their time outs to be precious, and saved for legitimate challenges, and the last 2 minutes of each half. I continued to state that, and when KS did utilize them wisely, I praised him.
                .
                I hope the moderator can see your profane insults, and will ban you forthwith.

              6. Listening carefully, I’ll even put in Japanese so you can understand,

                性交をシャットダウン

              7. I also advocated that the Niners consider their time outs to be precious, and saved for legitimate challenges, and the last 2 minutes of each half. I continued to state that, and when KS did utilize them wisely, I praised him.

                Sure, make it about you. A narcissist’s gotta narcissis.

                Prime, it’s no use trying to shame Seb over his incessant “look at me” compulsion. That how it is with narcissistic personality disorders. They can no more stop doing it as you or I can stop breathing.

              8. Rib, I own that strategy, because I have stated that every time I saw them waste a time out. Finally, KS did use his time outs wisely in the Rams game, which allowed the Niners to win the game. I did praise KS, because he was wise, and won the game. In the SB, he was not wise in the last 2 minutes before the half, and they missed out on a scoring opportunity.
                .
                It just burns you up to see me be proven right. You are just jealous, because you cannot think of anything at all, and your snark is repetitive.
                .
                I never would have brought it up, except Prime led with his chin and said I was always wrong and never right.
                .
                At least you acknowledged grudgingly when I called that flea flicker from Sanders to Mostert. That was a good play, because they scored an easy TD.

              9. It just burns you up to see me be proven right.

                You just can’t help yourself, can you. It’s almost clinical.

              10. At least you acknowledged grudgingly when I called that flea flicker from Sanders to Mostert

                Translation: constant acknowledgment and praise is my life blood, why do you withhold it?

              11. Rib, you make it sound like it is illegal for me to receive any positive feedback,
                .
                I wish you had as much class as George. He has liked some of my posts.
                .
                Your problem is- you do not say anything that is praise worthy. Your snark is tiring and repetitive.
                .
                Talk about being a narcissist, you think you are so superior, your opinions are superior to all others.

        2. Unlike the PD, Grant will need to answer to his new employer. He had free reign at the PD, and it showed up with his poor stewardship on this blog.
          I’m happy that Grant is making an upgrade in his career. But it’s a good for him that he be monitored by those in authority.

  80. Bob McGinn on Pittman (who I think is a value pick in Round 2):
    “MICHAEL PITTMAN, USC (6-4, 223, 4.52, 2-3): His father, Michael, played 11 years as an NFL running back gaining 5,627 yards (4.0 average) and scoring 25 TDs. “Doesn’t get a lot of love because he’s on the West Coast,” said one scout. “But he’s a big-body guy that belongs in the top-10 conversation (at wideout). Tough guy in traffic.” Started 30 of 48 games over four seasons, catching 171 passes for 2,519 (14.7) and 19 TDs. “Same type of guy as Bryan Edwards,” a second scout said. “Makes most of his catches in traffic. Strong after the catch. He surprised me with his speed. He and (Tee) Higgins are basically the same guy. Higgins played with a better team. I remember Pittman’s father in the Super Bowl when he played hard and tough even though the Raiders got beat badly. The son has that type of attitude as well. It’s going to be tough to stop him.” He led the leading wideouts with a Wonderlic of 29 and hails from Woodland Hills, Calif.”

  81. I’m Curious if anyone has heard rumors with respect to what the PD will do with the blog?
    Hammer may be one option, the PD could have him post a new 9er story every week? But due to financial constraints, the PD could also just remove Grant’s name from the blog and let the blog run itself, as it appears to be doing now?

    1. My email to PD’s sports editor (somewhere above) has, unsurprisingly, gone unanswered, so idk.

        1. I’m surprised the PD hasn’t made an announcement yet….Even something as simple as “we’ll be making an announcement shortly.” But the fact they haven’t taken the blog down, leads me to believe they intend continue it? Still, it would be nice to know they’re at least aware of the situation?!
          I don’t know about anyone else, but the fact Grant didn’t feel the need to announce his departure was his
          rather juvenile way of giving us the bayshore salute?

            1. oneniner
              That’s possible, but if that’s true why hasn’t the PD taken it down? Is it possible Grant moved on, because he realize the PD didn’t see any value in it and it was a candidate to cut costs?

            2. I’d venture to say this blog probably brings more traffic to PD than the rest of the site combined. I occasionally check in into the news articles as well. But who knows what metrics they are going by. Neither Grant nor anyone else (or any algorithm) overseeing what is presented have updated in how long? Poll: “Will the 49ers win this Super Bowl this season?” Popular story: “What must 49ers do to beat Seahawks?”. Sad. They did get rid of that embarrassing word cloud, most of which reflected entries from the Harbaugh era.

  82. I still believe it’s a bit of a gamble to take a WR afterJeudy,Lamb and Ruggs are picked because they clearly have the potential to be very good options on a team as #1-#2 WR.

  83. If the PD were to fold, the only loss (imho) would be is missing the all the posters who come here every day. There are posters here that go all the way back to the Matt Maiocco days. This site (even with its sometime bitter encounters) has morphed into a small community that keeps me coming here over the years.
    Hopefully, the PD understands that and is making an effort to continue this forum.
    But please clean up the mess left behind.

    1. I’ve only known about this blog for a couple years now. It’s become my favourite place for Niners related talk, and it has everything to do with the posters. There aren’t that many 49ers fanatics in southern Ontario that will talk endlessly with me about the Niners.
      Hope it keeps going.

  84. AES
    Agreed. IMO, it would be interesting to know how many posters were here for Grant’s articles and how many, like yourself, come for the back and forth with the other posters?
    Hopefully, Grant’s leaving will not only result in hiring someone who will clean up the mess left behind, but also see the return of those long time posters who left because of the mess.

  85. What if the SRPD closes down this blog? Where should we go?

    Seriously, let’s be proactive and discuss this.

    For all we know, this blog might be shut down today.

    What are our options? What are your suggestions?

      1. Understand what you’re saying.

        But whether or not there’s a season, is there another blog you know about that would encourage the open ended type of discussion this blog has afforded?

      2. Personally, I am leaning more on a canceled 2020 NFL season. No way, the players would risk their health (lives) without a FDA confirmation of a vaccine that ensures their safety. If my son was playing in a professional sport or even a pick-up game, I would make a strong case to discourage him from playing (he plays in basketball city leagues) for his safety and his kids.

        But, George brings up a good point about exploring other options in the event the PD terminates this site.

        1. AES, I am optimistic. I do think the present measures are working to flatten the curve, but am saddened by all the VA facilities being so hard hit.
          .
          I do think there will be a vaccine developed on a fast track, and hope the present administration begins to understand that the best way to fight this pandemic, is with universal testing. Not allowing tests just will perpetuate the length of this pandemic.
          .
          They may have to go the MLB route. No fans, and self isolation, with stringent testing.

          1. Seb,
            I’m always an optimist, but I don’t see the country (world) obtaining a real sense of security until a proven vaccine has been developed.

            Los Angeles had a small window of cases on Monday only to see a large rash of cases overnight. This only validates the fact that the pandemic is still unfortunately not contained.
            I’m hoping, for the sake of all people that the cure is quickly forthcoming, but just looking the recent surge in LA leads me to believe that football is not played this season.

            Three of hardest effected areas hit are LA, NY, and Louisiana. Does the NFL continue to play with the exception of playing games in these cities?
            There is too much uncertainty with the current situation for the NFL to risk the health and life of its employees.
            I hope that they do the right thing.

            1. I hope they do the right thing, too. Maybe every fan who wants to attend must take a quick test to show they have the antibodies and are protected (I do not know about being immune).
              .
              Traveling may be the hardest conundrum. Maybe they should have face masks pop down like the oxygen masks, so the passengers can breathe clean air, and exhale into the mask, that takes away their exhalations, so it does not contaminate the cabin.

              1. Those certainly are steep measures for people to take to see a live sporting event, but I wouldn’t rule anything out during this time.

            2. AES
              It’s not only a proven vaccine, but also a way to test for the virus! Without being able to test for the virus, how do you end people staying at home (lockdown)? How do you let people that have the virus, but don’t know it, go back to work and a spread the virus again?

              1. That’s a decision I would not want to make.

                I know that the economy is a major reason in jump starting our country, but if there is another wave of infected Americans because they were released to early, the deaths and recovery time may become insurmountable.

                Again, I can’t see the NFL going back to work under these present conditions.
                Nor, would I want them to.

    2. Seb would expire if the PD shut down this blog. They’d have blood on their hands.

      2. Seb, will be fine if this site bows out. So will all the blog community.

        It seems like our world changed over night due to the current situation. Making unforseen changes might become the new normal. The PD might find itself having to make changes as well.

        1. I do think the PD is providing a community service, but understand how difficult a time newspapers are having in this computer and internet age. Maiocco lost his newspaper job. Barrows left the Sacto Bee, Kawakami left the Mercury News. That was before this pandemic. Grant has now moved on from the PD.

          1. Yup, local newspapers are an old pre-historic animal that may be milling around looking for a spot to lay down.

            My local newspaper has gone predominantly internet. Unfortunately, they are charging a steep rate for an account membership.

            Now, if the PD were to charge a very reasonable fee to continue the Inside the 49ers blog, in an effort to keep this community intact, I might be interested.

    1. My super bowl attendance wiped out any discretionary 49er spending for this year :/

      But as a road game, it’s unlikely any winner from here would have awkward Grant encounters :)

  88. Press Democrat blog merely needs an administrator to create 1-2 daily pages with the topics of the day. For example , what do you think about the latest mock draft from CBS linked below , should the niners trade pick 31 etc. I have repeatedly raised the issue of the NFL season being canceled. LA Times just reported that Mayor Garcetti may ban all concerts and sporting events until 2021. Do you remember the teaparty imbeciles in 2009 ? These people are now marching and protesting the stay at home order in OH MI. LOL. The big trump rally in the sky is getting bigger and bigger.

    1. OMG. “Steve Mnuchin, the Secretary of the Treasury, Says $1200 Will Last Families Up To 10 Weeks” . This guy does not instill confidence. The fact the Jared, Buy High/Sell Low, Kushner and Ivanka, Made in China, Trump are on the restore American Business committee does not instill confidence either.
      We are f*cked.

  89. IF THE BLOG SHUTS DOWN, THERE’S NOW AN EMAIL ADDRESS TO STAY IN TOUCH:
    It doesn’t appear there’s much interest in staying in touch through another blog, in case of a shutdown. However, in case anyone is interested, I created an email address for this purpose. That address is below. If anyone contacts me there, I promise to keep your email address to myself, obviously. This email address should be easy to remember:

    insidethe49ers@gmail.com

    Quite original, I thought. :)

    1. Thanks for being pro-active on this George. I’m waiting to see which direction the PD takes regarding the future of this site.

    3. Good thinking and planning, George. Wish the Feds had done similar planning for COVID back in January :)

      When ESPN kicked out the regular anonymous blog commenters after insisting on posting with Facebook accounts, the denizens of ESPN went and created the free-wheeling, non-PC site Spiked Kool Aid (SKA). You think we might need to create a more restrained version of SKA ourselves ?

  90. Word on the street is the 49ers would prefer to move the 31st selection rather than the 13th.

      1. Tony Pauline:

        Seahawks, Titans, and 49ers looking to trade down
        Most everyone wants their favorite team to trade down in Round 1 and collect extra selections. So who’s looking to trade out of the first round?

        As of now, I’m told the Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans and San Francisco 49ers will shop their selections in the hopes of moving down. In the case of the Niners, I’m told they would prefer to move the 31st selection rather than the 13th pick.

        The Titans are interesting, as they have been often matched with offensive tackle Isaiah Wilson of Georgia, who many believe is a late first-round pick.

        If true, they must expect one of their guys will be there for them.

      1. Great song, cubus. I’m a big Michael McDonald fan to this day. I must admit that I don’t always understand what he’s saying, but I love the blue eyed soul style.

  92. Jerry Jeudy may be fast on the field, but he’s a bit slow upstairs – scored 9 on the wonderlic. I don’t put much stock in the wonderlic, but have to wonder if this might be something the team condiders given how complex the offense is known to be.

    Pittman (29) and Edwards (28) topped the WRs in the wonderlic. Both would be very good additions.

    1. Word on the street is the Eagles want to move up for Lamb.

      Joe Tordy
      @JoeTordy
      I’ve been told that the #Eagles are aggressively pursuing a trade-up in next Thursday’s #NFLDraft2020. CeeDee Lamb is the “apple of his eye” for Howie Roseman. Roseman is “absolutely in love” with Lamb. Hearing if that fails or top 4 WR are gone, PHI will be bailing out of 21.

      1,628
      4:29 PM – Apr 15, 2020

      1. I suspect they need to go higher than 13 to get him. But if not, I would be happy with a trade back to 21 to add 53.

    2. Crocker says the more he watches Pittman the more he likes his play. He’s one of the few players I’ve watched in college because he plays in the Pac-12. Consistent, physical player with good hands and ready to block. The type Shanny likes. What was his 3-cone time?

        1. Thanks.
          Better than Deebo. Not Pettis, Taylor level but very good for a 6’4″ 223 lb guy.

          1. Anything under 7 is very good and would appear that Kyle has 3 drills that matter more than others. Those being the 3 cone, short shuttle, and the vertical. These show explosiveness and change of direction ability, which translate more into getting open quickly. The question is, does he value these metrics too much?

      2. Crock really likes both Pittman and Edwards. So do I. I would be very happy if the 49ers are able to accumulate some draft picks by waiting a bit to draft a WR and grab one of those guys round 2 or 3.

        1. I copied Bob McGuinn’s review of Pittman earlier. Here’s Dane Brugler’s assessment:

          STRENGTHS:Soft, accepting hands with excellent grip strength…well-developed physique with very good height and length…excellent focus to track, highpoint and finish away from defenders…smooth body control and comfortable catching the ball over his shoulder on deep shots…clean releases and doesn’t get hung up near the line of scrimmage…physical after the catch and not easy to ground…does thedirty work on the perimeter, relying on his frame and strong hands…well-versed and productive on special teams coverages (17 tackles, three blocked punts, one punt return touchdown)…voted a 2019 team captain and USC coaches speak highly of his personal and football character (Pittman Sr.: “I wanted to be the best player on the field…my kids, they’re the same way”)…set career-bests as a senior, finishing as one of only four FBS receivers with 100-plus receptions in 2019.

          WEAKNESSES:Average speed player…was able to stack defenders mid-route in college, but doesn’t have the explosiveness to consistently do that vs. patient NFL corners…not an electric creator after the catch —more likely to pick up yards with power rather than athleticism…handsy at the top of routes and will be flagged for pushing off to aid his separation…battled through a litany of injuries in college, including a broken collarbone (January 2016), hand surgery (January 2017), high left ankle sprain (August 2017), broken nose (August 2017) and shoulder surgery (January 2019).

          SUMMARY:A three-year starter at USC, Pittman was the “X” receiver in offensive coordinator Graham Harrell’s spread scheme, lining up primarily outside the numbers to the left of the formation. He emerged as the team’s go-to weapon as a senior, doing his best work in the second halfof the season(61.4% of his 2019 receiving production)when his team needed a play the most. With his large hands and powerful attack skills, Pittman makes plays over defenders and doesn’t fight the football, recording only two drops on 140 targets in 2019. He is an athletic route runner, but lacks dynamic start/stop burst to quickly create separation or be a consistent YAC threat. Overall, Pittman is a strong-framed pass catcher and although he has only average speed by NFL standards, he wins with physicality and focus at the catch point, projecting as a reliable possession target at all three levels in the NFL.

          1. Thanks for the info Mood.

            I still believe that a healthy Jalen Hurd can carry that position. If the season is delayed or canceled players like Hurd, T. Taylor and Poindexter will have more time to fully recover from their injuries. I wonder if Goodwin may still be a viable option for Shanahan going forward.

            I would still like to the team draft one of the top 3 WR’s, because the have a much better chance to start on day one. But if they trade out for picks in the 2nd to 4th rds, I trust the 49ers talent scouts to find very good players. If we’re going to trade out of the 13th pick, I’d love to see the team garner two 2nd rd picks.

    3. Scooter_McG says:
      April 15, 2020 at 9:52 pm
      Jerry Jeudy may be fast on the field, but he’s a bit slow upstairs – scored 9 on the wonderlic. I don’t put much stock in the wonderlic, but have to wonder if this might be something the team condiders given how complex the offense is known to be.
      ——————–
      If it makes you feel any better, Randy Moss scored a 12, he turned out to be OK. AJ Green scored a 10. The average score for a WR is 17.

      Frank Gore scored a 6 and I’ve repeatedly read that he has a very high football acumen.

      I don’t know why they have prospects even take the test anymore.

      1. It doesn’t concern me i terms of how it impacts on whether Jeudy will be good. Don’t need to be smart to play WR at a very high level. More just a question as to whether it could influence how Shanahan thinks of him – will he be able to get across the playbook?

      2. CFC,
        I believe that the PD was completely blind-sided by Grant’ departure. This might be the reason for the current void.
        I’ve been waiting for PD to make an announcement regarding this change, but I get a sense that they don’t place a high priority on the blog.
        The PD’s silence is almost as bad as Grant’ sudden ghosting.

  93. Some guys I think that could take over the blog. Although, I am not sure if it would be step up career wise for for them.

    – Eric Crocker
    – John Chapman
    – Brian Peacock
    – Rob Lowder

    I would love it if Chris Biderman would take over but I’m pretty sure it would be a step down from his role at the SacBee.

    1. It’ll most likely be someone you’ve probably never heard of before. Just like Grant when he started.

      1. Would you consider taking the position if nominated?

        I have a feeling this blog will end up being a wasteland for comments before dying out at over 1000.

        1. The suggestion is flattering but I have a full time job. You want someone who is a full time sports journalist. Someone who has been educated and trained in this field. If you let one of us yokles take the reigns it’ll devolve quickly into a s**t show of trolls. Yes, it would actually be worse than it is now.

          Grant has always maintained the professional opinion that he’s not a “fan.” Although I don’t always buy it, that is the kind of mentality that you need running a page like this. Someone who, somewhat, is impartial. You also need someone that has the professional maturity to not get suckered into arguments with the trolls.

          It would be fun to run the blog, it would be fun if Jack or one of the other long time members took over but and this isn’t personal towards the others but I just know that the blog would soon die if that’s what happened.

          I’m keeping two fingers crossed that the PD has a plan. In the meantime and of course continuing into the future you can always chat up Grant at his new site. I have been. I like the format.

          1. Grant immediately deletes any comment that questions his line of thinking at his new gig. I’ve seen your comments there.

            1. If you say so. I’ve seen responses with derogatory comments deleted, which I agree with, something that needed to happen more often around here.

              1. Questioning his rationale about waiting until round 5 to draft a wr so as to not hurt the other backups feelings is hardly derogatory.

        2. that is the kind of mentality that you need running a page like this. Someone who, somewhat, is impartial.

          I don’t know about that. The NinerNation column generators are anything but impartial and that hasn’t seemed to hurt the content or responses there.

          A completely open blog software, made up screen names with made up unverified email addresses combined with just basic moderation algorithms screening a cuss word lexicon has gotten this forum to the state it’s in. You can’t police every bit of off-topic or ad hom postings, that’s crazy. We are humans with opinions on a wide range of topics. We all have buttons that get pushed. The very least things that could be incorporated is email verification and an ignore poster button. That would clean up a large percentage of the noise.

            1. Why? What’s to prevent posters from challenging his takes, just as we did Grants? Not to mention a huge volume of the responses to a given column veer off from the topic anyway (I’m talking about the football related responses). it doesn’t take much to nudge a flow of discussion here.

  94. I think the WR that best fits the 49ers will be Michael Pittman Jr. He checks the boxes that this regime looks for:

    1) Does he love football – Yes. Football runs in his family and his dad was an NFL player
    2) Work ethic – Yes and he was a Team captain
    3) Football Intelligence – Yes…high Wonderlic score.

    I would be disappointed if we take Ross Blacklock. I feel he is not big enough and might turn out to be like Solomon Thomas.

    Instead of a mock draft (which is so unpredictable bcoz of trades), here is my wish list for the 2020 Draft:

    Michael Pittman Jr WR
    Kenny Willekes DL
    Justin Madubuike DT
    Cameron Dantzler CB
    Ezra Cleveland T

    UDFA:
    Elijah Riley SS/CB
    Mitchell Wilcox TE

  95. The best case scenario for NFL this fall is games in empty stadiums. As I have astutely pointed out, the production of a NFL level game still requires a lot of human interaction. The players (of course), coaches, medical /support staff, grounds crew, media, stadium operations … Then there is the issue of travel. MLB , NBA and NHL are done for this year. It is unclear if NBA and NHL will be able to restart in the fall. They have the same logistical issues as NFL with 3x as many games. If there was a way to wager on this, I would definitely bet that there will be no football or any other pro sporting event in 2020.

    1. “no football or any other pro sporting event in 2020 ”

      I stand corrected. FL is allowing WWE to proceed after the unscrupulous Republican governor received a 19million dollar bribe. The governor has deemed WWE to be essential work – LOL. Interestingly linda mcmahon was in trump’s cabinet after failing to buy an election in CT and her husband Roid Freak is on Trump’s commission to “ReOpen America ” along with Jared and Ivanka.

      I say again – we are f*cked.

  96. It kinda feels like wiping your butt with your other hand. It just feels a little awkward at first, but you get used to it.

    Wirfs on switching between RT and LT. Good player with a great personality to add to the locker room!

  97. Lots of news of teams apparently looking to trade up for a WR. Blurb today mentioned the Broncos trying to make a deal with the Brownies.

    My guess is, unless this is all misdirection, that the top 3 WR’s will be long gone by #13.

    Better start working on your second choice.

    1. Atlanta wants to trade up for Henderson.

      Denver and Tampa looking to move up for OT.

      Eagles want to swoop up to snatch some Lamb.

      If true, Shanny may have his choice between Juedy and HR3.

      1. Denver is apparently moving up for a WR. Then you have the Raiders who will take one of them and possibly even the Jets. Although I’ve read the Jets really want a OT too.

        I think all 3 are gone by #11. The Raiders might be able to stay put and snag the last one but I would guess they’d want to move up a smidge to hedge that bet.

        1. Both Tampa and Denver are probably vying for the Jaguars #9 selection for their OT because they would need to leapfrog both the Browns and the Jets who are also in the market.

          I think instead of the 3 wr’s all gone, I think it will be 4 OT’s gone. Excellent talent and more valuable position.

          1. The report today says that Broncos are actively negotiating with the Browns, for a receiver.

            In my first all 32 it was the OT’s that ended up pushing the WR’s down and that is still possible but I still think it’s going to take a bit of luck for one of the top 3 to make it to #13.

            1. Jags surprise everyone and take Lamb. Broncos swap with the Browns and take Jeudy and the Raiders draft Ruggs.

              All 3 are gone by #13.

              Might be the best thing that could happen for us. Would give us one of the top CB’s or OT’s to choose from. Much smarter choice for this team.

              1. I’m with you. However, as I see it, I think edge rusher is even a greater need than CB or OT, and I’m hoping their first pick is Chaisson, assuming he’s available. I’d appreciate your thoughts on this.

                Everyone talks about losing Staley and Sherman, but few talk about Ford. It’s well know how Ford’s absence affected our pass rush. In that sense, he’s less replaceable than Sherman. Given his injury history and the question overhanging Blair, we need someone we can rely on for the left edge and who can replace Ford next year, if it comes to that.

              2. I agree that Ford’s health is a real liability. However I don’t think there is a prospect outside of Young who’s upside is enough to take them over an OT/CB or Jeudy. I was just listening to Cosell speak about Chaisson and he liked him but also had some reservations that would make me think we could have done better with our #13 choice.

                In a fantasy world where every prospect is available to use at #13 this is the order that I would take the first 10. This orders balances overall prospect strength and team need.

                1. Chase Young DE
                2. Derrick Brown DT
                3. Jerry Jeudy WR
                4. Jedrick Wills OT
                5. Jeff Okudah CB
                6. CJ Henderson CB
                7. Isaiah Simmons LB/S
                8. Andrew Thomas OT
                9. Tristan Wrifs OT/G
                10. Kenneth Murray LB

                Even though a part of me would die inside if the team took another defensive lineman in the first round you just cant pass up certain prospects.

                However back to your question, even if we could take anybody I’d go through 10 choices, and more actually before I’d go with another edge player outside of Young. In fact, the next edge rusher I’d put on that list wouldn’t likely come until the mid to late 20 range and it would be a toss up between Chaisson and the injury boom/bust prospect Terrell Lewis.

                There just isn’t a prospect that’s going to be there that I would take at #13 for the defensive edge. It’s a really weak class this year.

              3. Good point, George.
                .
                However, I would still go for one of the top 4 OTs, because I am assuming the Niners will do well, and not have a top 13 draft pick next season, and OTs as talented as those 4 may not be in next year’s draft. I think that they could also find a decent edge rusher in the second day of the draft, if they manage to trade back.
                .
                I like Chaisson, but he does have negatives. He is not known for his run defense, and tore an ACL in 2018.

  98. I think the best receivers that could be available in the 5th are:

    Bryan Edwards
    Donovan Peoples-Jones
    Antonio Gibson – This guy best fits the type of WR that Grant thinks Lil Shanny would want.
    Dezmon Patmon

    1. If Bryan Edwards is available in the 5th the NFL scouts should collectively hang their heads in shame. He should be a 2nd round pick, and I suspect if he had a chance to perform at the combine he’d be in the conversation as a potential 1st round pick.

      I really don’t understand why he doesn’t get more hype. He’s been a consistent producer in the SEC since his freshman year as a 17 year old. Last year he averaged 7.1 catches and 81.6 yards per game receiving. He’s got everything you look for in a WR – size, strength, good hands, tough and willing to take a hit, good speed for his size (apparently clocked as fast as Deebo by USC staff), got open at all levels against SEC DBs, makes some spectacular catches. Also apparently very smart and works very hard.

      He is very underrated.

      1. Earlier on I was seeing him ranked as an early to mid second rounder but since then he’s slid considerably. I couldn’t find anything that explained why. I put him there simply because if there is any truth to those rankings and he’s in fact there he’d be a no-brainer choice.

        1. Yeah, unless there is some skeleton hidden in his closet that we haven’t heard about but insiders know of, I really can’t see him falling past the 3rd round. Everything I have heard about him off the field wise is that he’s driven and works really hard, and that USC coaches loved him.

      2. Scooter
        Could be as simple as teams not being able to interview him face to face and have their medical staff check out how his foot is recovering and don’t know if he received a medical check at the Combine?
        WR’s, as we all know, can be hit or miss to begin with. This makes it that much harder to evaluate where to draft him?

        1. I think it is likely more a case he has gone under the radar for the internet scouting community. And to be fair, many of the main sites outline he is a prospect that is underrated. Would be surprised if NFL teams have him so low.

    1. The report yesterday by Tony Pauline is the 49ers would prefer to trade down from #31 rather than #13. That tells me they’re confident that a player on the top of their draft board will be available when they go on the clock….

      1. If the Niners were to trade down I would prefer it to be the 31 pick, but really I am of the hopes of keeping both the 13 and 31 pick.

        1. I agree with you. Keep both picks. No need to trade down this year.
          We have plenty of picks to address the very few needs we have this year.

  100. I hope Jay Glazer takes plenty of ish over how he over-hyped his big announcement about the first NFL player being diagnosed with SARS.

    Next time he tries to set fans up for a big news break he’s likely to be clowned hard. Rightfully so.

  101. Cosell is high on Trevon Diggs. I’m not surprised because I was too last year before the draft. However injury and character concerns essentially took him off my board. Cosell just watches film.

    I’d still avoid Diggs. He’s fools gold. Looks the part, has the tape to convince you he can play in the NFL but between injuries and potential suspensions he just not a guy you should commit anything more than a 4th round pick on. Someone will draft him way before that, I just hope it’s not us.

  102. I’m certain Burrow ,Tagavaloia,Herbert,Young,
    Okudah, Simmons,Wirfs,Wills,
    Thomas,Brown will be picked in the top 10 so definitely there will be a WR left @13, I hope it will be HRIII,Lamb would be a nice consolation price, Jeudy for me has the least potential of the 3 top WR’s considering his smaller hands/ drops.

  103. I have mocked Pittman before, but it is all moot if the Niners cannot trade back to get a pick in the second, third or 4th rounds.
    .
    Pittman is ranked 61, but the Niners do not have a pick between 31 and 155. I like Pittman, but several other WRs have been touted for their highpointing skills. Tee Higgins, Denzel Mims, Antonio Gandy-Golden, Chase Claypool and Isaiah Hodgins.
    .
    Brandon Aiyuk, Jalen Raegor and Lynn Bowden may help in the return game.
    .
    One way to get a pick around the end of the second round is by trading away players, but usually, single players command a 5th or 6th round pick. Hopkins earned a second round pick, just like JG, but they have the talent to warrant that high of a pick. I do not want the Niners to deal their starters, but choose players who do have worth, but could be expendable. Several teams want a WR, CB or RB, so the Niners should target them. Witherspoon did start for half of last season, but he would never garner a first round pick. Tevin Coleman did start in the SB, but singly, would have a team offer at most a 4th or fifth round pick for him.
    .
    I hope John Lynch can make some deals with other teams, but he should avoid helping playoff teams. Those trades may come to haunt the Niners, like the Charles Haley deal. He should target struggling teams that need lots of help, so the players the Niners offer will be upgrades. They should not trade with the Ravens, Vikings or Eagles. They should not trade within the division, and never, ever, help the Raiders, unless it is scamming them.
    .
    2 teams they should avoid like the plague are the Skins and Jags. Washington hates Mike Shanahan, and Baalke hates the Niners. Baalke will try to screw over the Niners, and will select Kinlaw if available, just to spite the Niners.
    .
    2 teams that may be good trade partners are the Falcons,and Broncos. They both want to get back into the playoffs, and KS has a good rapport with those organizations. The Chargers are another struggling team, and needs both a QB and RB, after losing Rivers and Gordon.
    .
    If they trade back and miss out on CJ Henderson, Trevon Diggs would be a good alternative. He may have had an academic issue with Saban, but he did not assault a woman, drive drunk or use drugs, so his discipline issues are easily correctable.
    .
    The Niners should choose Henderson, Diggs Gladney or Igbinoghene over Krystian Fulton and AJ Terrell, but if Fulton and Terrell are the only choices, they may have to take a chance with them. If they want to draft a CB early.

    1. Keep throwing your crap at the fan and hope that it sticks. Even last year you mocked 100 or more drafts and you still were wrong in every single one.

      Try less old yell’r!

      1. Glad you read my post.
        .
        You are a gutless wonder that will not even present a mock.
        .
        I do mocks that present what could be possible. In Lynch’s first draft, he hit on 8 of 10 things I wrote. He even obtained second and third round picks for the next season’s draft. He traded back, and also traded up, but did not avoid the red flagged players and committed a couple unforced errors.
        .
        John Lynch put on his ‘Trader Bill’ hat, and had fun, executing 6 trades in 2017. He even traded back for more picks in 2019. Too bad he did not take my advice, and selected Kentavius Street, with his ACL injury. I was proven right because Street has been a non factor.
        .
        Keep throwing crap at the fan? Maybe you need to stop tazing your balls, you seem to be mixing metaphors.

  105. with the 13th pick the 49ers select DT Kinlaw……..
    with the 31st pick the 49ers trade down with……

  106. I tend to be overly enthusiastic with the posts about the NFL Draft, so I am trying to limit my number of posts. But with time on my hands, I thought I would do three posts over the next week; one about prospects at the Niners’ positions of need, one about how the first round is going to go, and one about how the Niners draft will go (what I would do in their shoes, what I think they will actually do). These posts are all my opinion, and obviously subject to your kudos, criticisms, and your own insights (hopefully substantive in nature).

    In regard to the various positions of need the Niners may focus upon in the draft, the consensus seems to be that the Niners are looking to fill out the following positions (in no particular order):

    Wide Receiver
    Interior Offensive Line
    Offensive Tackle
    Defensive Tackle
    Cornerback
    Tight End

    I also think we need a backup strong safety, but this post is going to be long enough. A QB prospect to consider as an undrafted free agent: the other Love, Josh Love from San Jose State. Only 6-foot, 200 pounds, but improved every year, has a strong enough arm, and handles pressure in the pocket better than most quarterbacks, as ESPN noted in talking about draft sleepers.

    Wide Receiver
    Top Choice: Jerry Jeudy, Alabama. I highly recommend Ted Nguyen’s analysis of Lamb, Jeudy, and Ruggs in The Athletic. Jeudy is the consensus best route runner to come out in the draft in years; that type of precision and execution would serve the Niners well on the outside. I think Nguyen is right that his comparable in the NFL is probably Stefon Diggs (I am hoping he is not like the other comparable Nguyen notes, which is Amari Cooper; Cooper takes too many plays off and disappears easily). There has been sufficient discussion of Jeudy that I won’t belabor the point.

    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma. While Lamb has played against inferior defenses in the Big 12, his run after catch ability and ability to fight for contested passes are traits that translate across all conferences. Knows how to box out defenders, and shows the necessary physicality to deal with aggressive bump and run corners.

    Overrated (based on projected draft position): Henry Ruggs III, Alabama. He strikes me as John Ross; Ross has shown he can come up big (he had a couple of amazing games last year for the Bengals), but is too reliant on speed and will struggle with any proficient press corners. Can’t seem to break tackles, and lacks Tyreek Hill’s frame when it comes to being able to exhibit strength in boxing out defenders, run blocking, or disengaging from press coverage. I only label Ruggs overrated because I don’t perceive him as the third best receiver in this draft, which is where most people project him. For another overrated receiver (one not in the first round), I also am not a huge fan of Jalen Reagor, TCU; amazing when he is engaged and the ball is going to him, but otherwise takes plays off, doesn’t run block (which we need in this offense), and exhibits some concerns with attitude.

    Draft Darling for Me: Denzel Mims, Baylor. I wish I had posted my thoughts about Mims with The Draft Network analysis I copied before the Senior Bowl as I intended; he is now everyone’s dark horse. He had the best 3-cone drill at the Combine, and would be a wonderful red zone target for the Niners. And he has bulldog characteristics in him; he plays hard, he plays angry, and it shows not only in how he fights coverage but by how he willingly engages in run blocking.

    Interior Offensive Line
    Top Choice: Cesar Ruiz, Michigan. It’s all been said already, and this post is already going to rival the length of one of Seb’s screeds…

    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: Lloyd Cushenberry, LSU. Amazing arm length, and showed he had good feet at the Senior Bowl. Only issue is that he seems to be a Center only; would need to be taught up to play Guard.

    Overrated: Robert Hunt, Louisiana. Is coming off an injury, so Niners should beware. He is tough and a mauler, and is considered the top pure guard in the draft; honestly however, probably not the right fit for the Niners, who want more quickness and ability to reach the second level in zone rushing schemes; he’s more of a power blocker.

    Draft Darling for Me: Ben Bartch, St. John’s (Minn.). Division III small school man! Has started at Tackle in college, and played there at the Senior Bowl; but I think he is a Guard in the NFL given his arm length. Get him a NFL strength and diet program, and this guy (with his temperament) is a 10 year starter.

    Offensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Andrew Thomas, Georgia. Needs more strength, but has the attitude and characteristics to show he can develop that. The athletic ability is a fit for the Niners’ style of offense. Most importantly, makes no mistakes; consistent from play to play. Probably doesn’t have the ceiling of a Wirfs or Becton, but he has shown he won’t have the floor of them while doing it against SEC competition.

    Reasonable Alternative: Tristan Wirfs, Iowa. Amazing athletic ability, Wonderlic score of 23. Not as fundamentally sound as most Iowa offensive linemen are coming out of that Ferentz factory, but that athleticism…Here’s the reality; this choice by me has more to do with the fact that I think he would be amazing as a Guard from Day 1 (can be a Right Tackle from Day 1, but think he needs work to be a Left Tackle). I also like Jedrick Wills, Alabama.

    Overrated: Austin Jackson, USC. And not just because I went to UCLA… I think he is not an immediate starter; he will probably get there, because he is just too smart and has the characteristics to show he would work at it, but he missed last offseason and is going to have no offseason this year either. In other words, there will be pitfalls to start, and he is an unfinished product.

    Draft Darling for Me: Matt Peart, UConn. Give him a year to learn from great coaches (instead of UConn football), and he has a chance to be the best left tackle in this draft (as I mentioned, Wirfs is better at Guard, the behemoths like Becton and Isaiah Wilson are probably better Right Tackles). Cleveland will be consistent and may be Staley-like, but the scouts noting Peart has natural left tackle ability and just needs to build power in his punch as a run blocker sells me.

    Defensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Derek Brown, Auburn. I think he is clear and away the best in this draft. I watched a few Auburn games; he is impossible to miss. What he does in the middle is wreck offensive lines; needs to improve conditioning as he did tire in 4th quarters in a couple games I watched.

    Reasonable Alternative: None. Not in the Top 13, which is where Brown will go. Kinlaw I believe is not even close to Brown.

    Overrated: Given that Kinlaw is discussed in conjunction with Brown, I would say Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina. I also think bust potential is high with Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma; Oklahoma’s defense was suspect, and Gallimore needs to keep his weight down to be effective (wears down, unable to finish plays in the backfield).

    Draft Darling: Everyone has mentioned Ross Blacklock, but let me extol the virtues of Marlon Davidson, Auburn. He is who Solomon Thomas wishes he could be; able to play big end but also play 3T (Armstead clone). In fact, will probably be a better 3T than end, since he lacks burst around the edges. As Dane Bugler wrote as to his strengths, “Disrupts the pocket with his ability to sidestep blocks or squeeze through gaps…strong club rip and swat moves to erase the hands of blockers…strong, hungry hands to work off contact…excellent body lean, extending his long-arm into the body of blockers…doesn’t lose his bearings or balance easily…good feel for counters, finding a plan B when his original move is stopped…anticipates well vs. the run, allowing him to string moves outside…affects the game with his effort, chasing down tackles…thick body composition with positional versatility…finds passing lanes (nine passes defended in his career)…known as one of the harder workers in the program and called “emotionally mature” by his coaches…durable and logged 51 starts over his career.” I fully expect the Patriots and Belichick to sneak him with a 2nd round pick.

    Cornerback
    Top Choice: Jeff Okudah, Ohio State. No chance the Niners get him.

    Reasonable Alternative: None. Though, if the Niners are looking at CB at pick 31, then I would say Jeff Gladney, TCU and Trevon Diggs, Alabama.

    Overrated: CJ Henderson, Florida. So gifted athletically, so soft physically. Poor play strength, can’t defend against the run or get off receiver blocks, can’t locate the ball, will get overmatched by bigger receivers.

    Draft Darling: Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech. If he was 6’1” instead of 5’8”, he would be up there with Jeff Okudah.

    Tight End
    Top Choice: I don’t really think there is one. The Athletic cheated and mentioned Chase Claypool, under a theory that a lot of scouts wanted to see him as a Tight End in the Travis Kelce mode.

    Reasonable Alternative: There is none.

    Overrated: Cole Kmet, Notre Dame. He may be the highest rated tight end according to scouts, but I think if you’re lucky he becomes a poor man’s Kyle Rudolph. Also, as a UCLA alum, I watched Devin Asiasi; he has work to do. Can catch, and is willing to block, but does one okay (catch) and the other not so well (block, though he tries). He ran simple routes at UCLA, and will need some good coaching.

    Draft Darling: I’ve mentioned Josiah Deguara from Cincinnati before, but he just makes plays whenever I saw him play. Another name to consider: Albert Okwuegbunam, Missouri. Has all the talent, just has a ten-cent head (though he scored 28 on the Wonderlic). If someone gets him to concentrate and love football, he would be the consensus top tight end in this class.

  107. When asked if their grades are bunched together, Keim analyzed them without revealing specific rankings while reiterating how fun they are to watch.

    He said, “Andrew Thomas is probably one of the best pass protectors, you have Becton who’s freakish and one of the most powerful and gives you that wow factor. Wirfs has got tremendous upside athletically and does things out in space that are amazing. And you’d like to think that he’s just going to continue to get better and better. And, oh God, Alabama’s (Wills) he can play guard, he can play right tackle. He’s tough. He’s nasty. So these guys bring so many different things to the table that you get excited about. At the end of the day, I think that all four of them going to be good players and you just have to determine what fits what you do best.”

    https://www.si.com/nfl/cardinals/gm-report/steve-keim-tackle-andrew-thomas-mekhi-becton-tristan-wirfs-jedrick-wills

    1. I quite like Josh Jones too. Not in the same class as those four (though I’m not as high on Becton), but Jones is very good. Top 20 guy.

  108. I tend to be overly enthusiastic with the posts about the NFL Draft, so I am trying to limit my number of posts. But with time on my hands, I thought I would do three posts over the next week; one about prospects at the Niners’ positions of need, one about how the first round is going to go, and one about how the Niners draft will go (what I would do in their shoes, what I think they will actually do). These posts are all my opinion, and obviously subject to your kudos, criticisms, and your own insights (hopefully substantive in nature).

    In regard to the various positions of need the Niners may focus upon in the draft, the consensus seems to be that the Niners are looking to fill out the following positions (in no particular order):
    Wide Receiver
    Interior Offensive Line
    Offensive Tackle
    Defensive Tackle
    Cornerback
    Tight End

    I also think we need a backup strong safety, but this post is going to be long enough. A QB prospect to consider as an undrafted free agent: the other Love, Josh Love from San Jose State. Only 6-foot, 200 pounds, but improved every year, has a strong enough arm, and handles pressure in the pocket better than most quarterbacks, as ESPN noted in talking about draft sleepers.

    Wide Receiver
    Top Choice: Jerry Jeudy, Alabama. I highly recommend Ted Nguyen’s analysis of Lamb, Jeudy, and Ruggs in The Athletic. Jeudy is the consensus best route runner to come out in the draft in years; that type of precision and execution would serve the Niners well on the outside. I think Nguyen is right that his comparable in the NFL is probably Stefon Diggs (I am hoping he is not like the other comparable Nguyen notes, which is Amari Cooper; Cooper takes too many plays off and disappears easily). There has been sufficient discussion of Jeudy that I won’t belabor the point.
    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma. While Lamb has played against inferior defenses in the Big 12, his run after catch ability and ability to fight for contested passes are traits that translate across all conferences. Knows how to box out defenders, and shows the necessary physicality to deal with aggressive bump and run corners.
    Overrated (based on projected draft position): Henry Ruggs III, Alabama. He strikes me as John Ross; Ross has shown he can come up big (he had a couple of amazing games last year for the Bengals), but is too reliant on speed and will struggle with any proficient press corners. Can’t seem to break tackles, and lacks Tyreek Hill’s frame when it comes to being able to exhibit strength in boxing out defenders, run blocking, or disengaging from press coverage. I only label Ruggs overrated because I don’t perceive him as the third best receiver in this draft, which is where most people project him. For another overrated receiver (one not in the first round), I also am not a huge fan of Jalen Reagor, TCU; amazing when he is engaged and the ball is going to him, but otherwise takes plays off, doesn’t run block (which we need in this offense), and exhibits some concerns with attitude.
    Draft Darling for Me: Denzel Mims, Baylor. I wish I had posted my thoughts about Mims with The Draft Network analysis I copied before the Senior Bowl as I intended; he is now everyone’s dark horse. He had the best 3-cone drill at the Combine, and would be a wonderful red zone target for the Niners. And he has bulldog characteristics in him; he plays hard, he plays angry, and it shows not only in how he fights coverage but by how he willingly engages in run blocking.

    Interior Offensive Line
    Top Choice: Cesar Ruiz, Michigan. It’s all been said already, and this post is already going to rival the length of one of Seb’s screeds…
    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: Lloyd Cushenberry, LSU. Amazing arm length, and showed he had good feet at the Senior Bowl. Only issue is that he seems to be a Center only; would need to be taught up to play Guard.
    Overrated: Robert Hunt, Louisiana. Is coming off an injury, so Niners should beware. He is tough and a mauler, and is considered the top pure guard in the draft; honestly however, probably not the right fit for the Niners, who want more quickness and ability to reach the second level in zone rushing schemes; he’s more of a power blocker.
    Draft Darling for Me: Ben Bartch, St. John’s (Minn.). Division III small school man! Has started at Tackle in college, and played there at the Senior Bowl; but I think he is a Guard in the NFL given his arm length. Get him a NFL strength and diet program, and this guy (with his temperament) is a 10 year starter.

    Offensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Andrew Thomas, Georgia. Needs more strength, but has the attitude and characteristics to show he can develop that. The athletic ability is a fit for the Niners’ style of offense. Most importantly, makes no mistakes; consistent from play to play. Probably doesn’t have the ceiling of a Wirfs or Becton, but he has shown he won’t have the floor of them while doing it against SEC competition.
    Reasonable Alternative: Tristan Wirfs, Iowa. Amazing athletic ability, Wonderlic score of 23. Not as fundamentally sound as most Iowa offensive linemen are coming out of that Ferentz factory, but that athleticism…Here’s the reality; this choice by me has more to do with the fact that I think he would be amazing as a Guard from Day 1 (can be a Right Tackle from Day 1, but think he needs work to be a Left Tackle). I also like Jedrick Wills, Alabama.
    Overrated: Austin Jackson, USC. And not just because I went to UCLA… I think he is not an immediate starter; he will probably get there, because he is just too smart and has the characteristics to show he would work at it, but he missed last offseason and is going to have no offseason this year either. In other words, there will be pitfalls to start, and he is an unfinished product.
    Draft Darling for Me: Matt Peart, UConn. Give him a year to learn from great coaches (instead of UConn football), and he has a chance to be the best left tackle in this draft (as I mentioned, Wirfs is better at Guard, the behemoths like Becton and Isaiah Wilson are probably better Right Tackles). Cleveland will be consistent and may be Staley-like, but the scouts noting Peart has natural left tackle ability and just needs to build power in his punch as a run blocker sells me.

    Defensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Derek Brown, Auburn. I think he is clear and away the best in this draft. I watched a few Auburn games; he is impossible to miss. What he does in the middle is wreck offensive lines; needs to improve conditioning as he did tire in 4th quarters in a couple games I watched.
    Reasonable Alternative: None. Not in the Top 13, which is where Brown will go. Kinlaw I believe is not even close to Brown.
    Overrated: Given that Kinlaw is discussed in conjunction with Brown, I would say Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina. I also think bust potential is high with Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma; Oklahoma’s defense was suspect, and Gallimore needs to keep his weight down to be effective (wears down, unable to finish plays in the backfield).
    Draft Darling: Everyone has mentioned Ross Blacklock, but let me extol the virtues of Marlon Davidson, Auburn. He is who Solomon Thomas wishes he could be; able to play big end but also play 3T (Armstead clone). In fact, will probably be a better 3T than end, since he lacks burst around the edges. As Dane Bugler wrote as to his strengths, “Disrupts the pocket with his ability to sidestep blocks or squeeze through gaps…strong club rip and swat moves to erase the hands of blockers…strong, hungry hands to work off contact…excellent body lean, extending his long-arm into the body of blockers…doesn’t lose his bearings or balance easily…good feel for counters, finding a plan B when his original move is stopped…anticipates well vs. the run, allowing him to string moves outside…affects the game with his effort, chasing down tackles…thick body composition with positional versatility…finds passing lanes (nine passes defended in his career)…known as one of the harder workers in the program and called “emotionally mature” by his coaches…durable and logged 51 starts over his career.” I fully expect the Patriots and Belichick to sneak him with a 2nd round pick.

    Cornerback
    Top Choice: Jeff Okudah, Ohio State. No chance the Niners get him.
    Reasonable Alternative: None. Though, if the Niners are looking at CB at pick 31, then I would say Jeff Gladney, TCU and Trevon Diggs, Alabama.
    Overrated: CJ Henderson, Florida. So gifted athletically, so soft physically. Poor play strength, can’t defend against the run or get off receiver blocks, can’t locate the ball, will get overmatched by bigger receivers.
    Draft Darling: Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech. If he was 6’1” instead of 5’8”, he would be up there with Jeff Okudah.

    Tight End
    Top Choice: I don’t really think there is one. The Athletic cheated and mentioned Chase Claypool, under a theory that a lot of scouts wanted to see him as a Tight End in the Travis Kelce mode.
    Reasonable Alternative: There is none.
    Overrated: Cole Kmet, Notre Dame. He may be the highest rated tight end according to scouts, but I think if you’re lucky he becomes a poor man’s Kyle Rudolph. Also, as a UCLA alum, I watched Devin Asiasi; he has work to do. Can catch, and is willing to block, but does one okay (catch) and the other not so well (block, though he tries). He ran simple routes at UCLA, and will need some good coaching.
    Draft Darling: I’ve mentioned Josiah Deguara from Cincinnati before, but he just makes plays whenever I saw him play. Another name to consider: Albert Okwuegbunam, Missouri. Has all the talent, just has a ten-cent head (though he scored 28 on the Wonderlic). If someone gets him to concentrate and love football, he would be the consensus top tight end in this class.

  109. “I’ve never understood the idea of trading away a player, and then immediately replacing him with the draft pick that you got for trading him,” Monson told Mark Willard. “… Any time that you have to replace a guy with the draft pick that you get for trading him away, it’s just not a good move. I understand that it’s cheaper — the rookie will be on less money — but the money that you pay the veteran is worth the insurance for the [risk] that you’re not very good at drafting.”

    ^This

    1. Yep. I don’t see much sense in trading Buck just to use that pick on what would likely be an inferior replacement. Sure, take a DT at some point, but use 13 to get an elite talent at another position that rounds out the roster a little better.

      Personally I would still add Mike Daniels plus a rookie to help replace Buck.

      1. If Lamb comes off first, along with a run on qb’s and ot’s, plus a team overthinks Jeudy, Shanny may well get lucky once again….

      2. I doubt Buck would have been traded away if FO does not think they have a decent replacement for him already, by committee even if not by one player, without having to depend on the draft.

    2. I disagree. Buckner made his decision. He wanted to be paid 21 mil. The Niners just could not afford Buckner, they are still under salary cap restraints. They chose Armstead, and he restructured his contract so it would be team friendly. They could not even re-sign Sanders, after re-signing Ward.
      .
      The trading away of Buckner had 3 major factors. He wanted to be paid top dollar, and the Niners could not afford that. The Niners had to weigh the salary cap in their decision, and this was the best option. Thirdly, The Niners had a willing trade partner, who was willing to give up the 13th pick, and pay Buckner 21 mil.
      .
      I cannot fault Buckner at all, because he is thinking about his family. Now they have financial stability, and lots of growth. The Niners made the best choice, because they could have kept him for less, but he would not have been as happy.
      .
      The most important thing in this deal, will be that 13th pick. I do not think they need to garner 6 picks from that pick, but a couple small trade backs that get second and third round picks, may be the optimal strategy.
      .
      Thankfully, JL has done well with his drafting in 2018 and 2019. 2017 was a learning experience. Every pick from the 2018 draft class is with the team, and only Kaden Smith, TE from the 6th round is not still with the team from that 2019 draft class.

  110. The Niners began negotiations with Buckner last year and it became clear what his number was. That number wasn’t what the Niners wanted so a trade was the only thing they could do.

    CJ Henderson should be the pick at #13. If he is gone, take Henry Ruggs III.

    1. Agree with Mr. Prime Time.

      We may not be able to replace Buckner’s talent, but we might make up the difference from a position importance standpoint. CB and OT at 13 works for me.

      Good Player + Position Importance + Cap Space to retain a veteran
      vs
      Fantastic player in DeFo

      Not an easy decision, but I get the reasoning.

  111. 49ers met with Texas A&M WR Quartney Davis, who says he specifically met with WR coach Wes Welker. h/t
    @TheSFNiners

  112. Everything this regime has done since taking over the 49ers has been to draft and develop, and sign free agents with the intention of beating teams within the division.

    They specifically built the dline and pass rush up to contain Wilson in Seattle. It also drafted and developed and signed key free agents on defense to stop the multi faceted offense of the Rams. Now with the Cards having a quick footed QB and exceptional WR unit, the pick at #13 has to be CJ Henderson.
    He will take over from Sherm once he has learnt all the tricks of being a NFL corner.

      1. WR is the flashy exciting pick but a corner for the next 10 years sounds good. Especially in a division with so many good WR’s.

          1. When you make that pick in the top 15, the hope is that guy lasts 2 contract lengths. 10 years sounds about right.

            1. A first round pick on hope?…..Cmon Prime

              which player in NFL history has ever done that?

              2. QB, OL, TE, DL, – those are picks that would at least get you 10+ years.

                DB, RB, LB, WR – if you get 4-5 years then hope is applicable.

              3. You would “hope” every pick chosen gives you multiple years but there is a long list of cornerbacks chosen in the first round who have played more than 10 years.
                Same with RBs, LB’s, WR’s.

    2. Prime Time
      CJ Henderson: “He will take over from Sherm once he has learnt all the tricks of being a NFL corner.”
      Like learning how to tackle. Other than that, he checks all the boxes for a #1 CB

  113. Any update from the PD on what’s going to happen to this place? Eventually there will be too many comments on one blog, and the load time will start to become obnoxious.

  114. I’m glad Matt Breida signed his tender today.

    – We get the fantastic running back for another season
    or
    – We get a decent draft pick in a trade

    1. $3.3M is overpaying for Breida’s services…..

      In a shorten offseason makes sense to bring almost everybody back.

  116. Grant Cohn, “Lamb isn’t an X. He’s a slow gadget player. He’s a flanker. Not a deep threat or a route technician. He’s a guy you move around before the snap. A screen specialist. An extension of the run game.”
    Razoreater, “Poppycock”.
    Ted Nguyen, “Lamb is a classic X receiver but also has position versatility.”

  117. A trade with one team that accomplishes the goal of getting a pick in the first 4 rounds.
    .
    The Niners trade back twice, with their 13th and 31st picks, 17 spots. The Broncos offer pick numbers 15, 46, 77 and 118. The Niner picks 13 and 31 add up to 1750. The Bronco numbers add up to 1753 on the Trade Value Chart.
    .
    Moving back 2 spots in the first, and 15 spots into the second round, is well worth getting that third and 4th round picks.
    .
    Then, with those 4 picks, the Niners could select-
    15- Denzel Mims WR
    46- Lloyd Cushenberry OC/G
    77- Raekwon Davis DT
    118- Michael Ojemudia CB

    1. When is the final mock of 101 done so far coming out? I can’t wait to see you wrong again!

      1. Oh, look. The Niners are going to interview Raekwon Davis. Very smart, he can occupy double teams.

  118. Justin M
    @JustinM_NFL
    San Diego State CB Luqman Barcoo had 9 interceptions & 16 PBUs in 2019.

    He’s met virtually w/ 20+ teams.

    Here’s a list of teams that have shown the most interest: #Ravens, #Colts, #49ers, #Eagles & #Chiefs.

    COVID-19 prevented him from making any in-person visits.

    38
    7:10 PM – Apr 16, 2020

    49ers among teams to hold pre-draft interview with Alabama DT Raekwon Davis

  119. I hope the 49ers will study the 1986 draft, and implement the Larry Roberts strategy. The Niners had a list of 3 players they were targeting. Once those players were chosen ahead of the Niners, BW decided to trade back. He made small incremental trade backs multiple times, then used some of those picks by bundling them to trade up to get the players he coveted, in later rounds.
    .
    I hope JL has set up trade deals ahead of time, so he can pull the trigger quickly. he should make sure that they are fair, so both teams consider them Win/Win trades.

  120. I read Grants SI article about 5 reasons to take CJ Henderson at pick 13. He said the corners were the blame for losing the SB because they gave up a few big play first downs in the 4th Q. He fails to realize that they held Mahomes in check for 3 and half Qs and if the offense would of played better down the stretch and converted a few first downs we would of closed it out. Bourne ran the wrong route AGAIN on one of those plays which resulted in a 3 and out. The chiefs were pressing us hard in the 4th Q daring us to throw over the top because they knew we didn’t have enough play making WRs who scare them. Matheiu said he was happy that they stopped running the ball and decided to throw more when they needed stops. HENDERSON IS BASICALLY WITHERSPOON 2.0 a corner that’s a good athlete with a nice 40 time but is scared to tackle. Hard pass. We already have our young promising CB of the future and that’s Emmanuel Moseley. One bad assignment in the SB doesn’t trump the great season he had. If we drafted Henderson he wouldn’t be an upgrade over Moseley which would be a waste of resources with the first pick. Tim Harris will be back and we can find a corner in the 2021 draft IF they decide to move on from Sherman. Drafting a corner to sit on the bench the first year would be a waste. We do need to upgrade our depth in that area because Witherspoon is untrustworthy coming off the bench, but not at the expense of a first round pick. As of right now Kendrick Bourne is our #2 Wr on the depth chart. Let that sink in for a little bit……He’s an undrafted free agent who was about to be cut last preseason and over the last 3 seasons has averaged 22 yards a game. Not good enough. We need a true playmaking WR right now to start next to Deebo and that should be the first priority. There are 2 vacant spots open in the starting lineup and one is at WR and the other is at DT or if they want move Armstead inside where he’s at his best and draft another premium edge rusher. When Ford went down our pass rush fell off a cliff last year. Blair will most likely start the season on the PUP list so we are thin off the edge right now. WR and then Edge or DT would be my 3 positions to address with the first 2 picks before anything else. Drafting a tackle, corner, or center/guard first they would all be sitting on the bench in year 1. First round picks are not used to sit on the bench right away unless it’s a QB. We don’t have that luxury to do that when we lost 2 important starters at WR and DT this offseason.

    1. There’s a lot to like in what you say. In particular, you brought up the fact that we had the
      Super Bowl in hand but couldn’t hold the lead. I would say that the major weakness of our offense has been its lack of ability to hold a close lead in the last 5-10 minutes of a game. A stud wide receiver is one solution. So are stud interior linemen. So is a stud wide receiver. That’s why I’d welcome their drafting Jonathan Taylor, but I doubt Shanahan would go that way.

      1. Exactly…if our offense gets a few first downs after that 2nd interception we close them out and are SB Champs. They went 3 and out too many times in the 4th Q when they needed them to run the clock and seal the game. If jimmy g converts and moves the chains we aren’t talking about needing to draft cornerback with our first pick. Instead they would of been praised for picking off Mahomes twice and holding the former MVP to under 250 yards passing. The defense carried us most of the year as they were ranked #1 vs the pass and led the NFL in sacks. We need another playmaker at WR and I hope Lynch finds one in the first round.

  121. Matt Barr
    @MattBarr_
    South Alabama RB Tra Minter (@Minter23M) has had multiple conversations with #49ers RB Coach Bobby Turner. He’s also drawn interest from the #Rams and #Chargers. A small school sleeper to keep your eye on! #49wz

    17
    8:24 AM – Apr 17, 2020

    1. Razor
      You’re right, Minter is a sleeper. Likely an undrafted F/A unless someone falls in love with him on day 3
      * Another one to check out: Lynn Bowden (mid 4th round), he’s listed as a WR but can play RB and dual threat QB. A gadget player, but someone who can make plays wherever he’s ask to play.

  122. It’s becoming a popular opinion that CJ Henderson will get drafted before Okudah.

    1. “I know of several teams who believe Andre Thomas is the best tackle in the draft with the highest upside. But I also continue to hear from execs that Okudah and Thomas are two players at the top of the first round who could slide some. Don’t get me wrong – they’ll go in the top half of the first round. But perhaps not the top 10.”

      1. CFC
        * I don’t see Detroit passing on Okudah, especially after losing Darius Slay to Philly. Even if Detroit took
        DT Brown, Jacksonville would take him. It’s also possible Atlanta and the Vikings trade up for a CB
        * The top need(s) for Nr 2 Washington, Nr 4 NYG, Nr 8 Arizona and Nr 10 Cleveland, are OT’s. Tristan Wirfs, Jedrick Wills, Andrew Thomas and Mekhi Becton will likely all be one of the first 10 players drafted.
        * I may be wrong, but I don’t see any of them sliding to #16, do you?

  123. Since the site seems to be blocking my very long post about players of interest at positions of need for the Niners, I’m seeing if I break this out by position if I can get this posted. Sorry for the numerous posts in a row.

    First, Wide Receiver.
    Wide Receiver
    Top Choice: Jerry Jeudy, Alabama. I highly recommend Ted Nguyen’s analysis of Lamb, Jeudy, and Ruggs in The Athletic. Jeudy is the consensus best route runner to come out in the draft in years; that type of precision and execution would serve the Niners well on the outside. I think Nguyen is right that his comparable in the NFL is probably Stefon Diggs (I am hoping he is not like the other comparable Nguyen notes, which is Amari Cooper; Cooper takes too many plays off and disappears easily). There has been sufficient discussion of Jeudy that I won’t belabor the point.
    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma. While Lamb has played against inferior defenses in the Big 12, his run after catch ability and ability to fight for contested passes are traits that translate across all conferences. Knows how to box out defenders, and shows the necessary physicality to deal with aggressive bump and run corners.
    Overrated (based on projected draft position): Henry Ruggs III, Alabama. He strikes me as John Ross; Ross has shown he can come up big (he had a couple of amazing games last year for the Bengals), but is too reliant on speed and will struggle with any proficient press corners. Can’t seem to break tackles, and lacks Tyreek Hill’s frame when it comes to being able to exhibit strength in boxing out defenders, run blocking, or disengaging from press coverage. I only label Ruggs overrated because I don’t perceive him as the third best receiver in this draft, which is where most people project him. For another overrated receiver (one not in the first round), I also am not a huge fan of Jalen Reagor, TCU; amazing when he is engaged and the ball is going to him, but otherwise takes plays off, doesn’t run block (which we need in this offense), and exhibits some concerns with attitude.
    Draft Darling for Me: Denzel Mims, Baylor. I wish I had posted my thoughts about Mims with The Draft Network analysis I copied before the Senior Bowl as I intended; he is now everyone’s dark horse. He had the best 3-cone drill at the Combine, and would be a wonderful red zone target for the Niners. And he has bulldog characteristics in him; he plays hard, he plays angry, and it shows not only in how he fights coverage but by how he willingly engages in run blocking.

    1. What about Justin Jefferson? He’s going to be a top 20 pick. I think he would look great in our offense. 6’1 202 lbs ran a 4.43 and put up monster numbers in the SEC last year.

  124. Second, Interior Offensive Line and Offensive Tackles:

    Interior Offensive Line
    Top Choice: Cesar Ruiz, Michigan. It’s all been said already, and this post is already going to rival the length of one of Seb’s screeds…
    Reasonable Alternative at Draft Position it would take to get the Top Choice: Lloyd Cushenberry, LSU. Amazing arm length, and showed he had good feet at the Senior Bowl. Only issue is that he seems to be a Center only; would need to be taught up to play Guard.
    Overrated: Robert Hunt, Louisiana. Is coming off an injury, so Niners should beware. He is tough and a mauler, and is considered the top pure guard in the draft; honestly however, probably not the right fit for the Niners, who want more quickness and ability to reach the second level in zone rushing schemes; he’s more of a power blocker.
    Draft Darling for Me: Ben Bartch, St. John’s (Minn.). Division III small school man! Has started at Tackle in college, and played there at the Senior Bowl; but I think he is a Guard in the NFL given his arm length. Get him a NFL strength and diet program, and this guy (with his temperament) is a 10 year starter.

    Offensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Andrew Thomas, Georgia. Needs more strength, but has the attitude and characteristics to show he can develop that. The athletic ability is a fit for the Niners’ style of offense. Most importantly, makes no mistakes; consistent from play to play. Probably doesn’t have the ceiling of a Wirfs or Becton, but he has shown he won’t have the floor of them while doing it against SEC competition.
    Reasonable Alternative: Tristan Wirfs, Iowa. Amazing athletic ability, Wonderlic score of 23. Not as fundamentally sound as most Iowa offensive linemen are coming out of that Ferentz factory, but that athleticism…Here’s the reality; this choice by me has more to do with the fact that I think he would be amazing as a Guard from Day 1 (can be a Right Tackle from Day 1, but think he needs work to be a Left Tackle). I also like Jedrick Wills, Alabama.
    Overrated: Austin Jackson, USC. And not just because I went to UCLA… I think he is not an immediate starter; he will probably get there, because he is just too smart and has the characteristics to show he would work at it, but he missed last offseason and is going to have no offseason this year either. In other words, there will be pitfalls to start, and he is an unfinished product.
    Draft Darling for Me: Matt Peart, UConn. Give him a year to learn from great coaches (instead of UConn football), and he has a chance to be the best left tackle in this draft (as I mentioned, Wirfs is better at Guard, the behemoths like Becton and Isaiah Wilson are probably better Right Tackles). Cleveland will be consistent and may be Staley-like, but the scouts noting Peart has natural left tackle ability and just needs to build power in his punch as a run blocker sells me.

  125. Finally, a look at defensive tackle, cornerback, and tight end:

    Defensive Tackle
    Top Choice: Derek Brown, Auburn. I think he is clear and away the best in this draft. I watched a few Auburn games; he is impossible to miss. What he does in the middle is wreck offensive lines; needs to improve conditioning as he did tire in 4th quarters in a couple games I watched.
    Reasonable Alternative: None. Not in the Top 13, which is where Brown will go. Kinlaw I believe is not even close to Brown.
    Overrated: Given that Kinlaw is discussed in conjunction with Brown, I would say Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina. I also think bust potential is high with Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma; Oklahoma’s defense was suspect, and Gallimore needs to keep his weight down to be effective (wears down, unable to finish plays in the backfield).
    Draft Darling: Everyone has mentioned Ross Blacklock, but let me extol the virtues of Marlon Davidson, Auburn. He is who Solomon Thomas wishes he could be; able to play big end but also play 3T (Armstead clone). In fact, will probably be a better 3T than end, since he lacks burst around the edges. As Dane Bugler wrote as to his strengths, “Disrupts the pocket with his ability to sidestep blocks or squeeze through gaps…strong club rip and swat moves to erase the hands of blockers…strong, hungry hands to work off contact…excellent body lean, extending his long-arm into the body of blockers…doesn’t lose his bearings or balance easily…good feel for counters, finding a plan B when his original move is stopped…anticipates well vs. the run, allowing him to string moves outside…affects the game with his effort, chasing down tackles…thick body composition with positional versatility…finds passing lanes (nine passes defended in his career)…known as one of the harder workers in the program and called “emotionally mature” by his coaches…durable and logged 51 starts over his career.” I fully expect the Patriots and Belichick to sneak him with a 2nd round pick.

    Cornerback
    Top Choice: Jeff Okudah, Ohio State. No chance the Niners get him.
    Reasonable Alternative: None. Though, if the Niners are looking at CB at pick 31, then I would say Jeff Gladney, TCU and Trevon Diggs, Alabama.
    Overrated: CJ Henderson, Florida. So gifted athletically, so soft physically. Poor play strength, can’t defend against the run or get off receiver blocks, can’t locate the ball, will get overmatched by bigger receivers.
    Draft Darling: Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech. If he was 6’1” instead of 5’8”, he would be up there with Jeff Okudah.

    Tight End
    Top Choice: I don’t really think there is one. The Athletic cheated and mentioned Chase Claypool, under a theory that a lot of scouts wanted to see him as a Tight End in the Travis Kelce mode.
    Reasonable Alternative: There is none.
    Overrated: Cole Kmet, Notre Dame. He may be the highest rated tight end according to scouts, but I think if you’re lucky he becomes a poor man’s Kyle Rudolph. Also, as a UCLA alum, I watched Devin Asiasi; he has work to do. Can catch, and is willing to block, but does one okay (catch) and the other not so well (block, though he tries). He ran simple routes at UCLA, and will need some good coaching.
    Draft Darling: I’ve mentioned Josiah Deguara from Cincinnati before, but he just makes plays whenever I saw him play. Another name to consider: Albert Okwuegbunam, Missouri. Has all the talent, just has a ten-cent head (though he scored 28 on the Wonderlic). If someone gets him to concentrate and love football, he would be the consensus top tight end in this class.

    1. Keep trying. ;p
      .
      Pot, nice analysis.
      .
      I agree with you about Ruggs. Maybe the best move would be to trade with Denver amd get a third round pick, so they can move up for Ruggs. Raegor, if healthy, would have been in the first round, but has a core injury, I believe. The Niners should pass on him, but he would help as a returner, too, if they chose him.
      .
      I had Cushenberry in my 4 round mini mock, but would have preferred Ruiz. However, I have seen Ruiz go as high as 17 to Dallas because Frederick retired. I have mocked Ben Bartch many times. He would benefit from sitting and developing for a year, but I sure like his athleticism, since he was a converted TE. Thomas may allow the Niners to trade back, since he is one of the top 4 OL, until this latest chatter.
      .
      Brown and Kinlaw will most likely go before the Niners can pick. I have mocked Davon Hamilton many times, but Raekwon Davis may be the best option to replace Buckner. If they do go DL in the first, Ross Blacklock may be the best choice, since he is ranked 30. Justin Madubuike, Jordan Elliot may be good candidates, too, but like Davis and Hamilton, the Niners need to trade back to get picks in the second and third rounds, in order to pick them. Later round picks may include Larrell Murchison (149) and McTelvin Agim (206). I agree about Gallimore, but he does have speed (4.79 forty at 303 lbs), so Kocurek may be able to coach him up.
      .
      CJ Henderson may be getting some shade, but he is still going in the first round. Teams are just desperate for good CBs. Diggs seems like their best prospect, and may be available at 31.
      .
      Maybe the best option for the Niners is to trade back to a team that has CB as one of their top needs. Denver may be a good trade partner, but Atlanta seems the most desperate. Dallas, Miami and Minnesota all may want a CB, too, according to their draft needs after Free Agency.
      .
      Second and third round prospects that I have mocked after a trade back include- Noah Igbinoghene, Michael Ojemudia and Troy Pride. Later round prospects include Kindle Vidor (4.44 forty), John Reid (4.49 forty) and Reggie Robinson (4.44 forty).
      .
      I agree about the TEs. Slim pickings. I have mocked Chase Claypool many times, and have listed him as a WR/TE. Thaddeus Moss has the pedigree, and is ranked 144. However, one TE that I have mocked with a late Niner pick is Stephen Sullivan. He is ranked 214.

    3. Pot…Kettle
      WR: Jerry Jeudy, Ala. I Agree.
      IOL: Cesar Ruiz, Mich. I Also agree
      DT: Raekwon Davis Ala. late 3rd Rd. With NFL coaching, has potential to dominate.
      CB: Jeff Gladney, TCU. If he was 6′ 0″ V.S. 5’10” he’d be drafted in the 1st Rd.
      CB: Reggie Robinson II Tulsa. Size, length, Practice squad / ST player. Needs work, 7th Rd. with starter potential
      TE: Harrison Bryant, FAU. Great 4th Rd. value. Won John Mackey Award

      1. I like Gladney. Bryant I am okay with, needs to be able to block better. Davis has had flashes of greatness while at Alabama; may need that coaching as you say.

  126. Tra Minter- 5′ 7″ 185 lbs, 4.54 forty.
    .
    Later round RB prospects and UDFA candidates.
    .
    AJ Dillon- 6′ 0″ 247 lbs, 4.53 forty, 23 reps. Ranked 155.
    .
    Joshua Kelley- 5′ 11″ 212 lbs, 4.49 forty 6.95 three cone drill. Ranked 153.
    .
    Darrynton Evans- 5′ 10″, 203 lbs, 4.41 forty, 20 reps. Ranked 157.
    .
    Michael Warren- 5′ 9″, 227 lbs, 16 reps. Hamstring, so no 40 time. Ranked 272.
    .
    DeeJay Dallas- 5′ 10 “, 217 lbs, 4.58 forty, 7.18 three cone drill. Ranked 233.
    .
    Darius Jet Anderson- 5′ 10 ” 208 lbs, 4.61 forty, 19 reps, 4.19 twenty yard shuttle. Ranked 236.
    .
    Benny LeMay- 5′ 8″ 221 lbs, 4.75 forty, 24 reps. Ranked 333.
    .
    Sewo Olonilua- 6′ 3″, 232 lbs, 4.66 forty, 24 reps, 4.28 twenty yard shuttle. Ranked 321.

  127. Bonus thought:

    A QB prospect to consider as an undrafted free agent: the other Love, Josh Love from San Jose State. Only 6-foot, 200 pounds, but improved every year, has a strong enough arm, and handles pressure in the pocket better than most quarterbacks, as ESPN noted in talking about draft sleepers.

  128. The San Francisco 49ers held a pre-draft interview with former BYU and Utah linebacker Francis Bernard, according to Walter Football.

  129. All 32 w/ trades.

    1. Bengals – Joe Burrow QB
    2. Redskins – Chase Young DE
    3. Chargers – Tua Tagovailoa QB (DET gets #6+#37+#112)
    4. Giants – Tristan Wirfs OT
    5. Dolphins – Justin Herbert QB
    6. Lions – Isaiah Simmons LB/S
    7. Panthers – Derrick Brown DT
    8. Falcons – CJ Henderson CB (ARI gets #16+#47)
    9. Jaguars – Javon Kinlaw DT
    10. Broncos – CeeDee Lamb WR (CLE gets #15+#77+#118)
    11. Jets – Jedrick Wills OT
    12. Raiders – Henry Ruggs WR
    13. 49ers – Jerry Jeudy WR
    14. Vikings – Jeff Okudah CB (TB gets #22+#58)
    15. Browns – Andrew Thomas OT
    16. Cardinals – Mekhi BEcton OT
    17. Seahawks – K’Lavon Chaisson DE (DAL gets #27+#64)
    18. Dolphins – Josh Jones OT
    19. Raiders – Cameron Dantzler CB
    20. Saints – Tee Higgins WR + #116 (JAX gets #24+#88)
    21. Eagles – Justin Jefferson WR
    22. Buccaneers – Austin Jackson OT
    23. Titans – Yetur Gross-Matos DE (NE gets #29+#93)
    24. Jaguars – Trevon Diggs CB
    25. Vikings – Jalen Reagor WR
    26. Dolphins – DeAndre Swift RB
    27. Cowboys – Cesar Ruiz C
    28. Ravens – Kenneth Murray LB
    29. Patriots – Jordan Love QB
    30. Packers – Denzel Mims WR
    31. Browns – Xavier McKinney S (SF gets #41+#97)
    32. Chiefs – AJ Terrell CB

          1. Jeudy has the toolbox to be successful, but does he have the heart? He’s one where interviews would heavily influence me either for or against. All depends on his heart, football acumen, and then those hands….

              2. He doesn’t play like a 4.53s SS guy. Much like Mims doesn’t play like a 6.66s 3-cone guy. I think in both instances you need to trust the film.

                I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – people are overthinking it on Jeudy. Looking for reasons not to like him because it is so easy to like him. I’ve seen comparisons to Pettis… for mine that is off base. He isn’t Pettis. He is more Amari Cooper. Very similar prospects coming out. Cooper a little bigger and better over the middle, Jeudy a little better eating up a cushion quick and after the catch. But very similar overall.

    3. Edit
      Dolphins take McKinney S at #18
      Dolphins take Josh Jones OT at #26
      Browns take Netane Muti OG at #31

      1. Hmmm, 8 trades. I remember when posters were saying that trades were impossible, and no team wanted to trade.
        .
        Glad some posters are becoming enlightened. ;p

        1. When is the final mock of the 215 you’ve already presented coming out?

          I can’t wait to see you be wrong for the millionth time!

          1. Mock draft 14, just to tick off Prime, the gutless wonder who is afraid of doing a mock.
            .
            This entails a trade back with the Broncos, which I outlined previously.
            .
            The Niners trade back picks 13 and 31. They receive in return from the Broncos’ picks 15, 46, 77, 118. The 49ers also trade away Tevin Coleman and CJB to the Bucs for pick number 76.
            .
            The 49ers trade back 17 slots, end up with 4 picks in the first 4 rounds. They end up with pick numbers 15, 46, 76, 77, 118, 156, 176, 210, 217 and 245.
            .
            Using the CBS Big Board, and trying to pick within 5 of each ranking, the Niners could select-
            15- Denzel Mims WR
            46- Lloyd Cushenberry OC
            76- Troy Pride CB
            77- Raekwon Davis DT
            118- Damien Lewis OG
            156- AJ Dillon RB
            176- Davion Taylor LB
            210- Stephan Sullivan TE
            217- Trevis Gipson DE
            245- Tanner Muse S
            .
            The Niners choose a WR, OC, CB, DT, OG, RB, LB, TE, DE and Safety.

        2. No one has said trades were impossible. They said your ideas of bundling potential roster cuts for some teams second round pick Were.

            1. You get ridiculed for proposing ridiculous trades you lying sack of sh*t. Nobody is against trading down or up and never has been. You just come up with stupid unrealistic trade scenarios where the 49ers trade down multiple times and wind up with twice as many picks as they started with or trade multiple players that have little value for prime picks from other teams. You have never been accurate with your trade scenarios and never will be because you make trades that no sane GM in the league would ever go for. You then pick a crapload of players they will not have the chance to draft because they won’t have that many picks, then come on here and crow about how you got a couple right. Meanwhile you do so many mocks that you can’t help but get a couple right. You’ve got to be one of the most ignorant simpletons that has ever resided on the planet. Why don’t you do us all a favor and follow Little Cohn to SI so you can kiss his ass and post non stop garbage to your hearts content.

              2. T. Martins
                * Don’t sugar coat it, tell us how you really feel…..lmao

                Seb: See what happens when you live in the real world, with no Grant to protect you? You best get used to it!

              3. Nice hissy fit. Feel better?
                .
                I do not lie. Many detractors have flatly stated that no team would ever want to trade with the Niners, just to snark on my proposals.
                .
                John Lynch stated that he would consider every mock. I am taking him at his word. He is so much smarter that you will ever be. Guess what? the Seahawks and Patriots have employed the trade back strategy, and are perennial playoff teams.
                .
                A mock is just a guess at how a draft will go. People churn out mocks all the time, and it is just their opinion on what they would like to see. Nobody on this site did squat on nailing all the picks in the draft. Razor got a couple, and I think CFC may have gotten 3.
                .
                I am proposing trades of players who have worth, and fill the needs of other teams. I do not want to trade away starters, because they need their starters, although the Niners themselves just traded away Buckner, a starter and MVP. KS likes Goodwin, and he can run a 4.27 forty. Witherspoon started the first half of last season, but is expendable, now with Moseley. Several teams inquired about the availability of Mullens. Coleman did start in the SB, so I hope they can get a pick of value for him.
                .
                I never get any right? In 2016, I got 3 picks correct. Buckner, Joshua Garnett and Fahn Cooper. I have been pretty bad on the most recent picks, but I fully admit that, and it does not bother me at all. I have always said that I would accept their decisions, and root for their success. The only ones I have sharply criticized are the ACL players and red flagged players.
                .
                Most ignorant simpleton? You must not read Prime. He bet the Niners would draft Trubisky. He belligerently proclaimed he wanted the Niners to play twice in the Clink, making it twice as hard to win. He stated the Niners do not need a draft to win 10 games, and proclaimed that draft picks should be 10 year starters, when most do not make it past 3 years.
                .
                In 2017, I presented a 10 point plan on the draft, and JL followed 8 of my ideas, even obtaining second and third round picks for 2018. the only ones he disregarded were the ones about avoiding making any unforced errors, and avoiding the red flagged players. In 2018, he chose Street, an ACL player that I have advocated against, and it has not worked out well.
                .
                It is deliciously ironic to see so much backlash against anything I have written, when they are mainly based on the 1986 draft by Bill Walsh. Guess you want to diss Bill Walsh, too. Also, do not say I have stolen his ideas. I have stated many times that I have read all his books, and I have gained inspiration from them. Bill Walsh himself has said that most every football idea has been previously proposed and this is a copycat league.
                .
                I am wondering how this transition will go. I sure hope the new person will upgrade this site, and enforce decent blog protocols. I have wished Grant well, and has perused his site, but am not impressed by the other writers. They really must be raw recruits, because they are having a hard time reading what they wrote, and seem to be parroting what they see other writers have said about the Niners.
                .
                I kiss Grant’s arse? I may push back against the screeds against him, but I also have made it a point to offer constructive criticisms. I am not a sycophant, and have disagreed with him on many points. I do like Grant, but he is not above reproach. He is not perfect, and can improve.

              4. You will be wrong and then you will cry victim or make some other pity party excuse.
                Your game is old and weak!

              5. If I were thin skinned like you and Prime, I would be upset.
                .
                Grant protect me? No, he has allowed the peanut gallery to go ballistic.
                .
                I have no worries about snark from a poster who advocated a trade of Witherspoon for a first round pick. You are truly delusional. Thanks for giving me a perfect foil to your attacks.

              6. No you were the guy who said Mullen’s was the best QB on the roster and that Old wind up was gonna come back to the NFL and take the league by storm again.

                Can’t wait till the draft and dissect your incompetence!

              7. At that time, Mullens had participated fully in the OTAs, and Mini camp, had a fully healthy left knee, and did not throw 5 interceptions in a row.
                .
                I wanted to take the cautious approach, and not throw JG to the wolves. Let him work back gradually, and make sure his knee could take the pounding, and let him regain his accuracy. Just imagine the howls of anger, if JG tried to play too soon, and had a relapse. It is called protecting the investment. Throwing those picks meant that he did not have his confidence back fully, and maybe was tentative, because of his knee. Grant thought that he did not step into his throws because of the ACL Knee.
                .
                You keep on inferring that I want the Niners to get rid of JG and install Mullens. That argument is fallacious, and I can prove how specious you are. I like Jimmie Garoppolo so much, I do not want Kaep to return. If I wanted Mullens to be the starter, I would want Kaep here to provide competition.
                .
                So every time you think I want Mullens to be the starter, I will counter with- not enough to not want Kaep back. Maybe you want Kaep back, because you said he took the league by storm. Maybe that is why you seem to be touting Mullens over JG. I certainly am not. In a period when there were questions about the health of the knee, and the effect it may have on his accuracy, Mullens would have been a perfectly fine substitute until JG demonstrated he was fully recovered from his knee injury. Throwing 5 picks in a row demonstrated that he may not have been fully recovered, and that they should ease him back slowly. I would have been happy for Mullens to play, because that is what backups do, if the QB is injured, because he threw 5 picks in a row.
                .
                I like JG. I did not think Brady should come and supplant him, although I saw the logic and reasoning behind it. Many thought the whole idea was impossible. Then Brady himself named the Niners as his first choice.
                .
                Did I say that Mullens was superior to JG? No. I thought Mullens was more healthy than JG, and we could not find out that JG could take a hit until the Steelers game.
                .
                Just more desperation on your part to feebly find any fault from me. I also like Mullens. I want the Niners to trade him away, so he has a chance to start, and play. He certainly will not supplant JG, so he may be lobbying to got to another team with a QB vacancy. Cincy may be a good destination, but Burrow may be an impediment. Miami and the Chargers are looking for QBs. Gruden is not happy with Carr. Trubisky is on thin ice. Minshew, a QB I touted last year before the draft, may warrant competition. Mullens may be superior to Bridgewater. The Colts may have Rivers on a short leash. Brees is on his last contract. Brady cannot play forever. Mullens could play on at least 8 teams. Just not the Niners, because they have JG.

              8. Seb when are you gonna learn that 15 paragraphs of BS is something I don’t subscribe to and that the forum doesn’t appreciate it.

                Have you not learnt anything since being on here? Of course not. Narcissistic d bags never have any clue but their own pathetic bubble!

            2. Oh, please. I got so much flak for proposing any trades at all, for years.

              Dude, In this blog alone.
              I, George, Scooter, Em Jay, Pot Kettle and Brian B have proposed the idea of a trade back… so no, most are not against that Idea. In fact I think most are open to the idea. They just don’t like it when you propose stuff like “SF should bundle Goodwin and Brieda for a 2nd.” As they are probably only both worth a 4th or less and 2 4th round picks are not worth a second.
              Then again, every once in a while the Texans or Mike Ditka strike and show that even retarded trades can get made.

    4. Intriguing; thanks for the work. Surprised you had Henderson going before Okudah, though I know the Falcons love Henderson. I think we should get 32 of our posters here to do a mock 1st round mock, with each poster representing a single pick and going in order.

      2. I’m in. But someone needs to organize it. By that I mean someone needs to keep the list of us, and then assign an order and pick the draft day.

        1. Well, that’s 3. If we can even get 7 more, we can assign out. We should try for next Wednesday at 3 pm PST maybe? Let’s see if there is enough interest. Seb, GEEP, Rubicon, Nintendo, who knows?

  130. The Raiders staying true to form I see.

    The draft fairy delivers us from wide receiver evil, and forgives us of our past sins at the position.

    #41 is a 3T and #97 is a CB or OL

    1. That’s a little strange for me. I had assumed one of the reasons for deciding to go with Armstead over Buck was that they wanted a more traditional 3T – someone a little shorter and squatter that fires off the ball. Davis is built more like Buck… would seem a bit like looking for a cheap knock off. Nothing against Davis – I like him as a round 3 prospect, just not the type of player I thought the team would be after for that spot. Could of course all be smoke – they’ve talked to just about every potential day 2 type DT.

      1. Scooter
        DT: Raekwon Davis: A late 3rd Rd. draft prospect. 1st round potential that can dominate with Kocurek’s coaching,

  132. Trey Burton getting released. 49ers have shown lots of interest in adding a TE… he could be a great fit.

    1. I haven’t followed him, but while he had a good 2018 (569 yards and six TDs), he only had 84 yards and 0 TDs in eight games in 2019. Apparently he is recovering from hip surgery. I’m not sure of the details, but that kind of surgery would set off red flags for me.

      1. He’s expected to be ready to go by TC. Lots of guys have offseason surgeries to clear stuff up. The injuries the past couple of years are of course a concern, but the 49ers are after a 2nd TE, not a guy to play 80%+ of downs. He’s a highly versatile guy – more a H-back than true TE. Sounds exactly like the type of player Shanahan could find a use for.

        1. I was thinking the same Scooter. Would be the ideal #2 TE. Would be an awesome pick up. I would imagine that the Niners kick the tires considering they have tried to find a #2 TE all off season long.

        1. Given the abrupt nature of the act, and the lack of Grant posting any goodbye, I’d say that would be a safe bet.

          1. If the PD doesn’t make a change from this current topic (Grant’s last stand), it’s going to be a madhouse around here leading to the draft next week.
            You can also add the possibility of going well over 1000 + hits with all the comments following the 49ers draft choices.
            The PD needs to get on top of this.

            1. Has to be a local guy with some passion. That’s why I nominated Jack Hammer. He’d just need to loosen up on those stats a little bit….

              1. Hammer would good. Plus, he has just enough edge to him to kick up a little dust and keep things interesting.
                Still waiting word on the PD. All they need is for someone who can maintain good housekeeping. I mean, the dirty laundry was starting to stink.

              2. Why is a local guy a prerequisite? This is the internet.
                .
                I would not mind Elkhart’s finest.

      2. It’s quite possible he was unceremoniously laid off or anticipated it and had SI in his back pocket. He’s doing lots of videos over there, which he seemed to like here.

      3. The PD along with other newspapers are hurting for advertising dollars. Grant may of been laid off, because I don’t see his name in the Staff Box any longer.

        1. Neal
          Could be, In fact I had the same thought. But unless PD walked him out, it doesn’t explain why he never
          said he was leaving or goodby? Just nothing and the next thing he’s at SI

          1. Geep,
            A lot of people get fired and laid off and they are shown the door quickly. I was trying to find article if the PD let go of some of its employees and could not find anything.

            1. Do you think Grant sat at a desk in the PD building? Grant worked from home and probably never set foot in the PD building.

              1. They might not even realize he’s gone. His twitter feed still on the page, this footer on the page:

                Grant Cohn
                I cover the San Francisco 49ers year-round for The Press Democrat in Santa Rosa. Argue with me, agree with me, or just read the posts and follow the conversation.

          2. Grant could have posted something here just as easily as us. Or even a shout out from Twitter. *crickets* That he didn’t or hasn’t has lowered my opinion of him as a person to the one I have of him as a sportswriter.

          3. The day of Grant’s announcement via twitter and retweeting congrats from other PD alumni, I responded to his tweet, “nice, when are you going to inform the inside the 49ers board”. He deleted my tweet from his feed.

  134. https://www.ninersnation.com/2020/4/17/21225677/49ers-draft-13-dt-kinlaw-jeudy-mims

    Sam Monson on the top WRs:

    Monson said he had more confidence in Jeudy being more successful out of the gate but thinks CeeDee Lamb has a higher ceiling and could easily be an All-Pro and top-five receiver in a few years. The argument of drafting a receiver early in such a deep receiver class is valid. That could cause Jeudy to slide right into the 49ers’ lap.

    If the 49ers do pass on a receiver with their first pick, Monson likes Baylor’s Denzel Mims at 31. Monson said there is a big indicator that if you show up well and completely dominate a level of all-star competition that it’s an indicator, you’ll do really well in the NFL. Sam said the Senior Bowl had predicted guys like Cowboys WR Michael Gallup, Washington’s WR Terry McLaurin last year, and this year it was Denzel Mims, who was PFF’s highest-graded player during the Senior Bowl week since they’ve been grading players at the all-star game:

    “He was basically open every single 1-on-1 route. He caught everything and absolutely dominated guys. Then he goes to the combine and runs a 4.38, jumps really well, has an incredible 3-cone for a guy his size. He basically put himself into the 96th percentile of NFL athletes. It’s basically been his stock going through the roof.

    It is a fair criticism to look at his college tape for a guy that dominant and wonder why it was so underwhelming. I think you have to ask yourself why, and I think you can explain it. The offense there at Baylor with what they were asking him to do was a little bit predictable. Cornerbacks were expecting the two or three routes he was going to run on every single play. Whereas you go to the senior bowl in the 1-on-1 drills, he can run anything, and the cornerback has to respect that. Therefore all of his fakes and all of his routes got him open. When you look at his college tape, he wasn’t able to do that because nobody was buying what he was selling. I think Mims is a better NFL player than he was a college player, and it’s not like he was a bad college player.”

    1. Any thoughts on Justin Jefferson? I saw your breakdown of the WRs earlier and seemed to left him out.

      1. I like Justin Jefferson; I think’s he the third best receiver over Ruggs. The issue is I think he works best as a slot receiver, and the Niners have that covered if we wanted to go with an Edelman-type (Taylor, James) or with a big slot (Hurd).

        Jefferson has great hands, runs solid routes out of the slot, and I think is more polished than Ruggs.

        1. What I like about Ruggs is that he’s more than just a 4.27 speed Wr… he only had 1 drop all season which is pretty amazing for a guy his size. The only negative reports I read about him is that he struggles to beat press man coverage on the perimeter.

    3. Denzel Mims is a future NFL Star in my opinion. You would of thought that after he ran a 4.38 40 and had one of the best 3 cone drill times, that he would be mocked somewhere in the top 15 in this draft. He’s also a big target at 6’3’’ with great hands…there’s a lot to like about him and if Lynch decides to go WR at 31 I pray he’s still on the board.

      1. According to Tony Pauline, Mims will be drafted higher than people think:

        When I’ve done radio interviews around the country over the past few weeks, the host continues to ask me if I expect any surprises in the draft. There’s one that continues to be a distinct possibility in talking with people around the league – Baylor receiver Denzel Mims could be selected much earlier than most expect.

            1. Razor, I don’t think that’s a pre-req. It’s not like any of Grants in person observations gave us much insight. More important is a column containing a personal take on this or that, then open the floor for discussion.

              1. I agree with Rib. Throw your name in the hat. No one know this blog better than you.

              1. Look at little yell’r already brown nosing, playing victim and being a shallow sycophant.
                Pathetic!

              3. I do know this blog better than you. I’ve been here longer. I’ve seen it all. Ive seen posters leave because of you and I’ve seen Grant save your sorry a$$.
                Now that’s all gonna change and you won’t have a life raft no longer yell’r!

  135. Von Miller and Rams C Brian Allen test positive for Covid 19. Oh and for you fox “news” aficionados the 19 represents 2019 not the 19th iteration of Covid – LOL. Anyway, the 2020 NFL season aint happening. Meanwhile the national embarrassment in chief is encouraging his cognitively challenged mob to take to the streets – again LOL. And of course they will do whatever Dear Leader requests.

    Conversations happening across American living rooms:
    Son: Dad why are those idiots gathering in public ?
    Dad: Son , remember learning about Darwin in Biology 101. Well , what your are witnessing is modern day natural selection.

  136. This story a poignant reminder that C-19 doesn’t respect political leanings, care where you get your news from, or who you want to pin the blame on today.

    https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/18/nyregion/coronavirus-jjbubbles-joe-joyce.html

    Those amongst us who may scorn over the source of the story, or the #hypeisahoax crowd? that’s fine. Just be smart, keep safe, don’t let ideology trump common sense and advice from people who know what the f they are talking about. We don’t want to lose voices from here.

    And what does this have to do with sports? We’ll be needing much much fewer reports such as this before we can even think about a return to our sports normalcy.

    1. Tony Pauline

      There have been reports in the media claiming C.J. Henderson has passed Jeffrey Okudah on cornerback boards around the league. I’ve heard nothing to justify these reports but I can tell you this- several people inside the league tell me it’s looking more and more as though Henderson, rated as the 13th best prospect on my overall board, will end up as a top 12 pick in the draft.

  138. Not sure why…Okudah seems to be the total package. He checks all the boxes you ask for in a cornerback. Henderson can’t tackle and is no where near the prospect IMO. Okudah should be a lock to go #3 overall.

  139. NYG; ONE OF SEVERAL NFL TEAMS WILLING TO TRADE:
    New York Giant’s GM, Gettleman, has not traded down in seven previous drafts as the GM of either the Giants or Carolina Panthers, but he told reporters during a conference call on Friday he is very open to doing so.
    “It’s something I would seriously entertain,” he said.

    8 teams most likely to make a trade in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft…..https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2020/4/8/21210022/nfl-draft-2020-trade-candidates-up-down-chargers-dolphins-patriots

  140. 13. San Francisco 49ers (via Indianapolis Colts): CeeDee Lamb, WR
    The 49ers miss out on Jeudy, but they’ll happily settle for Lamb. The Oklahoma receiver might not be the fastest receiver, but he should pair nicely in the Niners’ receiver-friendly offense.

    31. San Francisco 49ers: Ross Blacklock, DL
    After trading DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts, the 49ers have a big hole on the interior defensive line. Blacklock is a fast riser, who could be the next star defender in San Francisco.

    https://247sports.com/ContentGallery/2020-NFL-Mock-Draft-Trades-143156379/#143156379_32

    I could see that. And I can say, Seb-like, it fits my prediction of WR at 13, DL at 31. And also, Seb-like, no one else has predicted that combination, have they?

    1. Try harder.
      .
      CeeDee Lamb is the top ranked WR in this draft. There are some teams ahead of 13 that may want the top ranked WR, including the Raiders, who pick ahead right before the Niners. I am almost thinking that Kyler Murray may want his old receiving buddy to throw to. However, the Jets are the most probable destination. They want to give Darnold a big weapon.
      .
      Ross Blacklock- Overview: ‘Flashes menacing disruptive qualities as a gap seeker, but is just ordinary when forced to sit and take on blocks.’
      Weaknesses: Achilles. Drops head into double team challenges. Knocked around by interior power. Ends up on the ground too often.
      .
      Not very many others would select a player most likely going before the Niners can pick and thinks Blacklock can take on the double teams like Buckner could do. Maybe you will tout Madubuike next. He can get flattened by double teams.
      .
      The best linemen who look to be able to take on double teams are- Derrick Brown and Javon Kinlaw, but they may be picked before 10.
      .
      Other D Linemen who are stout include Raekwon Davis ,Davon Hamilton, Jordan Elliot, Leki Fotu and Rashard Lawrence. Late round prospects who the Niners may take a flyer on include Benito Jones, Bravvion Roy, McTelvin Agim, Larrell Murchison and John Penisini.
      .
      Replacing an All Pro like Buckner will not be easy. The Niners should not count on Brown or Kinlaw to be available. If gone, they should trade back and get second, third and 4th round picks, and select Raekwon Davis or Davon Hamilton, if possible.

      1. CeeDee Lamb is the top ranked WR in this draft.

        Nah, that’s not consensus. ESPN #2, Bleacher report #3, PFF #2, NinersNation has him #1, in the X position. So if he were to drop to 13, should Niners snap up the #1 WR prospect? You are convincing me it’s a steal.

        1. The draft is an imprecise science. Lamb could drop, but Jeudy or Ruggs are way more likely.
          .
          There are also rumors abounding. Cleveland may trade away OBJ, then take a WR with their first pick.
          .
          Both Denver, TB and Atlanta may want to move up, and that would change everything.
          .
          However, Lamb may fall, because Mims may go first. By every measurable, he is superior than Lamb. Lamb did not even bother with the 3 cone or shuttle, because he did not want pedestrian stats.

  141. I hope the team does no first round trades. The palindromic perfection of picking at 13 31 is much too good an omen. Plus, personally it appeals to my OCD tendencies.

  144. George
    Add a tenth of a second to Huntley’s 40 time (his pro day, hand held stop watch time VS the Combine’s electronic time), and it’s not as impressive. Also, the 9ers have all the RB’s they need. So unless they trade one (Breida), I don’t see them adding another one.
    But, as niners nation’s Jeff Medina points out, Like Matt Breida, Raheem Mostert, and Jeff Wilson Jr. all three weren’t drafted out of college and all three have had success with the 49ers under head coach Kyle Shanahan. So he fits with how Shanahan finds his RB’s

    1. It’s all about Mr. Turner, who’s 70 years old. I sure as hell hope he has an apprentice. The first attribute he looks for is toughness, mental toughness, followed by the ability to learn and retention. I would like to ask him how disappointed he was with the outcome of Joe Williams, and if he could point to some specifics as to why he wasn’t successful under his tutelage….

  145. You would think RB would be one of that last areas we address in this upcoming draft. Unless they move on from Coleman or trade Brieda there’s no room on the roster for another rookie. Coleman, Mostert, Breida, Wilson, McKinnon. Someone has to be the odd man out.

    1. Brian, of course you’re right. In my post all I said was, “Possible Breida replacement?” Huntley is projected to be an UDFA, same as Brieda was. Also, in size and speed they’re similar. Huntley can possibly return punts, though. Watch the video. Too bad he’s not a WR.

  146. Going through the latest list of 49ers pre draft visits, here is what I think that I think about the 49ers plans leading up to the draft.

    There are three main positions the 49ers are targeting on day 1 and 2: WR, DT and OT. Of those, the first two (WR and DT) are getting most of the 49ers attention and likely positions the 49ers don’t want to come out of day 2 without having addressed given the calibre of prospects they have met with.

    While the team has met with some high end OT prospects, they have also looked at lower round guys. This is likely a position the team would like to add in rounds 1 to 4 depending on how the draft falls and moves they can make, but won’t force it.

    The team has also met with a lot of later round WRs. But with meeting so many of the top guys it seems unlikely this is an indicator they will be willing to wait to day 3 for a WR. I think it is more likely an indicator the team could double dip to take advantage of such a strong class.

    Positions the team is looking strongly at for earlyish day 3 prospects (in addition to OT and WR) are TE and S. While positions like iOL, DE, LB and RB have gotten less attention or been largely guys that are fringe draft picks/ priority UDFAs.

    The really interesting omission is CB. Not many CB visits that are known about. Really just two – Dantzler and Barcoo. I think this is a wild card pick, and could potentially be a surprise early pick the team is trying to keep under wraps.

    Based on the above, I somewhat doubt the 49ers will look to make too many trades back to accummulate picks on day 2. I expect they will still try and move back with one of their picks, but I think the team will be happy with just 2 or 3 picks in the first 2 days if that’s how the draft plays out.

    1. Yea, I’m still not sold on the 49ers prioritizing the cb position in this defensive scheme. The highest they’ve drafted one so far has been round 3, and that’s where I’d expect them to look again if they’re looking. Even the Seahawks under Stinky Pete haven’t drafted a cb in round 1 or round 2….

      1. The lack of known visits would suggest you could well be right. My guess is they probably look to add one rounds 3-5.

      2. If CJ Henderson is there at #13, they should take him.

        Reports indicate he is ultra competitive and that’s exactly what the majority of this championship defense uses as its calling card.

        1. Wasn’t that long ago you were saying they needed to take Ruggs at 13. You’ve also said the team is loaded with talent and don’t need to trade down. Now you say the team should take Henderson at 13. If they take Henderson at 13, what do they take at 31 – WR or DT? And what do they do at the position they don’t take?

          1. I like Ruggs too and yes I’ve been a big backer to take him. I just think Henderson is a top 5 talent and if he falls to #13, he gives this team more.
            I’ve been studying him and he is gonna be a game changer.
            We can address WR and DL later in the draft.

            1. Ruggs may be another John Ross. Study him all you want. If he is as good as you think he is, the Jets or Raiders will take him.
              .
              Denzel Mims is a better prospect. He certainly was not the WR3, like Ruggs was.

              3. I think you will be wrong about Ruggs. KS already has a WR who can run a 4.27 forty. Maybe you did not realize that.
                .
                You obviously do not take into consideration that rookie WRs tend to become injured, because they need a year to work out and build muscle so they can take the sledgehammer blows the defenders are paid to deliver. Also, the WRs are usually learning a whole new system, and the speed of the game is ratcheted up.
                .
                Kittle did way better after his rookie season.
                .
                I have been studying Mims, and he did have some drops, but he played with a broken hand. When it was healed for the 2019 season, he did not have as many drops. Mims has measurables very similar to Julio Jones. He has a 6.66 three cone, which is very impressive for a 6′ 3″ player. Looking at the Senior Bowl practices, it seemed like he was always open and he caught everything.
                .
                If the Niners do take a WR at 13, I hope they take Denzel Mims.

              4. Seb,
                I’m getting very discouraged with Pac 12 WR’s. The two you mentioned not only came out of the same college with high marks, they both have completely underachieved as pros.
                I’m more apt to believe that Pettis could make a comeback, but I certainly wouldn’t bet the farm on it. Even worse, he has no trade value which makes puts him and the team in a untenable position.

                I still like Ruggs for many reasons.
                1. Amazing speed
                2. Great hands
                3. Great leaper
                4. Physical player
                5. Fearless
                6. Competitive nature
                7. Played in the SEC, which prepares their players for the pro game.
                All this adds up to a more important factor, imo. The countless possibilities that Shanahan will create for him.
                While you (with all due respect) see him as a possible John Ross, I see him as a possible modern day Bob Hayes that became one of the biggest threats in the NFL.

              5. AES, we will just have to agree, to disagree.
                .
                However, if he is as good as you think he is, the Raiders may take him. I also have been perusing the Mile High Report, and the Broncos may want to leapfrog over the Raiders and Niners with the Jets, in order to select Ruggs.
                .
                I do think Ruggs is talented, but KS already has Goodwin, who is another speed burner.

              1. In that situation the numbers don’t lie. But on tape and what scouts have been saying about him, he might be the best corner in the draft. I guess we will see next Thursday.

              2. Raz,
                I have been unimpressed with CJ Henderson from day one. He may be the most overrated name to be mentioned on this board. I don’t get the love for him, especially when I see a few willing to pick him at 13.

                Your CB stats were very revealing. The fact that he only shows up one time (tied for 10th place) on a chart only validates my opinion of him.
                Fulton and Robinson have shown well in all your categories. The only category that Henderson would rank at the top, is bad tackling.

        2. If we take Henderson at 13 then what do you do with Moseley? Put him back on the bench after the good season he had last year? It wasn’t a coincidence that the pass defense all of a sudden got better when he came in and replaced Witherspoon in the playoffs. He locked down Diggs and then in the NFC championship he picked off Rogers. Moseley is underrated and will only get better with more experience IMO.

          1. You can never have enough good DB’s. Moseley and Henderson can compete for a starting job.
            Sherman probably has another year left in the tank so then you have a guy trained in the scheme and ready in a year.
            The other advantage is the depth in the secondary that we need.

  147. Justin M
    @JustinM_NFL
    #Portland TE (and Senior Bowl participant) Charlie Taumoepeau has recently held pre-draft meetings over FaceTime with #Packers, #49ers, #Cardinals & #Falcons.

    33
    6:32 PM – Apr 18, 2020

  148. James Madison de Ron’Dell Carter had a pre-draft workout scheduled with the 49ers.

  149. They say you can’t FIX STUPID – Turns out – you can’t QUARANTINE IT EITHER

    The confederate flags are a nice touch because they were also a bunch of losers who died fighting for something stupid.

  150. I think CJ Henderson may be a good trade target for another team. The Broncos, Falcons, Cowboys, Dolphins, Raiders and Jags may all want to trade up to secure him.
    .
    Ideally, the Niners could trade back with the Broncos, and get second, third and 4th round picks, while the Broncos get 2 first round picks.Maybe throw in Marquise Goodwin to sweeten the deal. The Broncos could then have their pick of possibly one of the 4 top OL, CJ Henderson, or Henry Ruggs. Depends on which direction Elway wants to go.
    .
    The Dolphins have plenty of draft capital to move up, so they might think it is worth leapfrogging ahead 5 spots and getting the second best CB in the draft, in exchange for pick number 70.
    .
    The trade back with Miami, and a trade back with the Chargers, would accomplish the goal of trading back 11 total slots, and achieving picks in all 4 rounds. The Chargers would want to select either a QB if they passed at 6, or a RB to replace Melvin Gordon, and lock that player into a 5 year deal. The Niners would have pick numbers 18, 37, 70 and 112, from those trades.

  151. As we approach the 1,000 comment mark, we are also quickly approaching the point where the top three posters by themselves will break the total comment record.

    1. Agree that’s why I stay away…..aside from the insults the same three are obviously experts on everything LOL

      1. Agree that’s why I stay away…

        Oh come on. Without Grants contrarian reporting to stroke your Niners doomsday inclination, you have no reason to come here at all anymore.

  152. I am about to say something with great strength and power. Get ready for a very powerful comment. Shanahan likes versatility in his WR. If strong research is done regarding where Julio Jones lined up during KS’s tenure a powerful discovery will be made which is that he lined up as outside , slot , flanker …. The notion that the receiver we draft must conform to an exact predetermined mold or that he can’t learn some new tricks is false. Also, I’m quite sure KS will some playcalling adjustments to fit the skill set of the new receiver. Having said that, there is such a thing as chemistry and cohesion. Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed the Strength and Power of my comment .

  153. For those of you that enjoy learning about the nuances of football for scouting or player evaluation… first down training has some great videos on some potential wr draft prospects. These include Mims, Shanault, Aiyuk, Hamler, Pittman, Jefferson etc. It even has some evaluation of some old vets like Rice and Johnson.

    I’m looking are you Scotter,

    Hamler link here … you can do the rest of the research on your own :D
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHNnm4zoWdc

    1. Thanks, General Patton. Didn’t know videos like this existed. On the same page was an interview of Hamler by Louis Riddick. See below if interested.

      Question for you: Would you say that Hamler is more versatile than Ruggs?

  154. GEEP, George, Razoreater: I only see the 4 of us interested in doing a first round mock on this page. If you are still interested, here is the suggested order:

    GEEP: Picks 1, 5, 9, 13 (Niners’ first pick), 17, 21, 25, and 29
    George: Picks 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, and 30
    Razoreater: Picks 3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27, and 31 (Niners’ second pick)
    Pot…Kettle: Picks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, and 32

    Due to the limitations of this site, no trades (though when posting your pick and the explanation why, you can mention if you would have drafted or traded the pick). Why don’t we start posting at 3 pm PST Wednesday, each person going after the prior person posts, and then I will do a summary post at the end showing all the picks?

    If anyone else joins in, I’ll try and re-jigger the order.

      1. Too late! You’ve already submitted your 14th which will scrutinized to the 10th degree next weekend.
        Then again it won’t matter. You could mock a million more and they’ll all be wrong. The football intellect you posses is comical.

    2. Pot, I’m going to have to bow out. Family conflict. Very sorry about that. I see that Seb’s thrown his hat in, though.

      1. George: sorry to miss your insight. Hope you and the family are well.

        Seb: You can take George’s spot. I agree with GEEP it would be better if we had more involved. I would like to get to 8, so each person only takes 4 picks. We don’t need in-depth analysis for long posts if the person doesn’t want to; just need someone to make a pick to know what players are gone for the next person if that is more comfortable.

    3. Pot…Kettle
      I agree, we need additional players to join. Breaking down 8 players will make for a Seb type post (1000 + words or more). Especially if we break down the rational for the player(s) picked.
      I do like the idea of each person going after the prior person posts.

      Scooter: You need to get involved. Other than Razor, you’ve posted your opinions of players more than anyone.
      Shoup: How about you joining in? You don’t strike me as the shy type…lets get your opinion on some players?
      AES: You’re a regular poster too. Don’t be a wall flower…lol
      Ribico: How about you taking 4-5 players?
      BT: Lets hear from you too! What have you got to lose?

        1. Rebelscum: I will add you in, and re-configure the order. I had tried to save #13 for GEEP and #31 for Razoreater since they wanted to make the Niners’ picks.

      2. Also, Coffee’s for Closers seems like a natural to join, given he’s already posted one mock of the first round.

      3. GEEP,
        I appreciate the invite, but in my previous mocks I’ve only gotten two players correct – Kaepernick and Reuben Foster.
        I don’t want to jinks the board so I will gracefully bow out.
        My two 1st rd picks remain Ruggs and Ruiz though.
        But I would love to see what you all come up with.

        1. AES, please participate. It does not matter if you get any right, it is just who you want at that spot.

        2. AES: we are mocking the entire first round, so you would be making picks for teams other than the Niners. Seb is right; none of us are going to be right that much, but it is just fun and helps past the time. Plus, by picking players for other teams, we get to hear about players the Niners wouldn’t have a chance at or could be facing the Niners soon.

          Would love your insight and knowledge.

      4. I’d like to Geep but I’m pretty slammed at work right. I have a project deadline that needs to be met by Tuesday next week. So I couldn’t do the necessary research on players/ team needs etc :/
        Hopefully next time ;)

      5. Geep-

        I don’t watch college ball, but will do it as I like to pay attention to the draft and will assess teams needs- not too hard when knowing the draft slots.

        1. Dave: I’ve added you to the list. Keep track for a post at the bottom of this blog for the draft order and what picks you will be making. Thanks.

  155. i was going to chide grant for the fact that he’s being mocked by his fellow 49er journalist…….for being the only guy complaining about JG….and outrageously clamoring for a qb in round 1.. (although they didnt refer to him by name)…….and i see he’s been fired/moved on……..i couldnt be happier!!!

    I bet this narrative is what got him shown the door…….anyone complaining about anything having to do with the 49ers after the year we had…….coming off of 5 horrible seasons in a row……is flat out insane!!!!! Lacking any type of football knowledge!!!!

    1. It was long overdue for Grant to move on. He lost control of the blog, and rarely provided any “Inside” reporting on the 49ers. Time for some new blood, and hopefully a new perspective….

      1. totally agree Razor! Things got weird around here. The name calling, the political BS, the 6 creepy versions of an overly obsessed seb………..all of that is OK! But when i hit my limit of Grant trolling us……and beg him to stop with the idiocy………im banned! ( my other email) LMAO! what a joke! That guys has thinner skin than a Trojan

        1. J
          You appear to have a passion for the game. How about adding your name to Pot…Kettle’s list of people
          doing a first round mock? Maybe take George’s place?

          1. Geep, i’d be in on a mock draft. I’ve listened to about 50 passing the time at work…..so im up on players and team needs

      2. Whatever happened, it happened quick. Its almost like a settlement where both sides are not allowed to comment.

        1. Grant has moved on, but he also moved upwards. SI is a big advancement, and is national.
          .
          It is interesting. They took down his photo, but left his Twitter.

            1. Prime Time
              You have posted your opinion on drafting players several times. Why don’t you join Pot…Kettle and the rest of us doing a mock draft on some players?

              2. My one concern is if Prime Time and Seb join together, it might devolve into name-calling and political rants. If we can keep it to picking players for the picks you are assigned, Prime Time should join; the more, the merrier.

              3. Put your money where your mouth is Seb. You had a chance to prove your superior football intellect but like always, yellowed out!

          2. SI has been the Circle K of pro football knowledge. Are you suggesting that with the addition of, Grant Cohn they’ve all of a sudden become enlightened?

            1. No, but all newspapers are hurting bad, and even worse with this pandemic. Obviously, they are not doing any new hires, since this blog post has been vacant since Grant left.
              .
              SI is not known to have won a Pullitzer, but it is national, and the podcasts may be his opportunity to help get into television. SI sees that Grant may generate buzz with his hot takes.
              .
              Grant is the boss of other writers , so he is moving up in the world.
              .
              He has brass balls to make a career change in the middle of a pandemic, but everything has changed, especially now that we have a possible closure of the season.

              2. No, Trump wants to open up the nation. I want to rely on the medical experts to tell when the restrictions may be lifted.
                .
                I want expanded testing. Trump wants to not test, so the true numbers are not known, as if hiding the facts will help.

              3. WTF are you babbling about? Did anyone mention anything about opening the country?
                Go smoke your pot!

              4. Are you blithering? First you compare me to Trump, then say that what Trump says and what I say does not matter, even though we are diametrically opposed to each other.
                .
                You are more like Trump than I am. Foul mouthed, spewing insults, demonstrating a total lack of any intellect, and a racist bigot , to boot.

        2. “Pride comes before the fall.” I had a sense that Grant’ days were numbered when he boasted back in late Fall on his great number of followers.
          Hopefully, the many here that challenged his articles toughened him up, because he will need to have tough skin against his new colleagues that will likely challenge him.

    1. George
      The past 7 – 10 days I’ve seen more video breaking down KJ Hamler, as well as Jalen Reagor and Denzel Mims, than I’ve seen since the Combine. Not just their highlights, but breaking down their routs, stems and how they get off the LOS. The thing that stood out (for me), was P/K returns for both Hamler and Reagor and their ability
      to change the outcome of games.
      KJ Hamler || 2019-20 Season Highlights || Full Season …https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvBb7II_BNo
      Jalen Reagor Career Highlights – YouTube….https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TOD1j_9ENE

      1. Thanks, GEEP. I’ve seen the one on Hamler before but not Reagor. Just watched them again. Very exciting receivers.

  157. Have to say, the 7 round mock Grant posted for the 49ers today would be one I’d consider to be a great draft. Lots of guys I really like and I think it is quite possible the team does look at OT with their first pick if one of the top 4 is there at 13.

    1. QB, DE, OT have always been the Shanny order of worthiness in the first round last I checked.

  158. As Scooter just mentioned, Grant has a seven-round mock today. He has them taking WRs in rounds 4 and 5, Bryan Edwards, South Carolina, and Easop Winston, Jr., Washington State. Here’s a highlight video on Winston:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uxx3x9qMt3o

    Here’s Grant’s mock:

    “Round 1, pick 13: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia. Most fans want the 49ers to take a wide receiver. I want them to take Florida cornerback C.J. Henderson. But I doubt the 49ers will spend a first-round pick on a wide receiver or a cornerback, because players at those positions bust frequently.

    Offensive tackles are much safer to take in Round 1. And the 49ers might want an elite left-tackle prospect to replace Joe Staley, who will turn 36 in August. The 49ers probably won’t own a top-15 pick for the next few seasons — they have a good roster and should pick near the end of Round 1 the next few years. This year might be the 49ers’ last chance for a while to draft an elite left tackle.

    I believe the 49ers would take any of the top-four tackle prospects — Thomas, Iowa’s Tristan Wirfs, Alabama’s Jedrick Wills Jr. or Louisville’s Mekhi Becton. Of those four, Thomas seems the most likely to fall to pick 13. So that’s the player the 49ers probably will take.

    If you find this selection underwhelming, so do I. But the 49ers deserve the benefit of the doubt if they take an offensive lineman, because they drafted well last year.

    TRADE: Pick 31 to the Los Angeles Chargers for picks 37 and 112.

    The 49ers have no draft picks between Rounds 1 and 5, so they will trade down six spots to pick up an early fourth-rounder from the Chargers.

    Round 2, pick 37: Jordan Elliot, DT, Missouri. After trading down, the 49ers could take a wide receiver or a cornerback. I would take wide receiver Denzel Mims.

    But the 49ers have taken wide receivers in the second round of the past two drafts. They took Dante Pettis with the 44th pick in 2018, and Deebo Samuel with the 36th pick in 2019.

    The 49ers might feel they have bigger needs at defensive tackle, because they traded DeForest Buckner to the Colts. So the 49ers could draft the best defensive tackle available with the 37th pick — Elliott. He’s big and strong and can start right away. Another safe, conservative move.

    Round 4, pick 112: Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina. Now, the 49ers get their wide receiver.

    Edwards played alongside Deebo Samuel in college, and the two complemented each other. Samuel was the gadget receiver who ran reverses and screens and slant routes. And Edwards was the tough, big-bodied receiver who ran post routes and dig routes and made difficult catches while running across the middle.

    The 49ers don’t have a receiver like Edwards. He would compete with Kendrick Bourne to start next to Samuel next season.

    Round 5, pick 156: Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa. The 49ers typically don’t draft premium cornerback prospects. They draft corners with certain specific athletic traits who are available in the middle rounds. Then the 49ers teach them to play zone coverage.

    Ojemudia has all the traits the 49ers look for. He’s tall (6’1”), fast (4.45 40), quick (6.87 3-cone), explosive (36-inch vertical) and has long arms (32 ¼ inches). He most likely will be the 49ers’ next cornerback project.

    Round 5, pick 176: Dalton Keene, TE/FB, Virginia Tech. When the 49ers took Jalen Hurd in the third round last year, Shanahan said, “He got drafted as an NFL receiver, kind of.” Shanahan also said Hurd could have gotten drafted as a running back or a tight end.

    Shanahan wants Hurd to be a versatile weapon and a key member of the offense. But Hurd fractured his back last year and missed the entire season. Will his back hold up next season? Who knows?

    The 49ers need another versatile offensive weapon in case Hurd doesn’t make a full recovery. Meaning they could take Keene, who can play tight end, H-back and even full back. Keense potentially could replace Kyle Juszczyk in 2021 when Juszczyk becomes a free agent.

    Round 6, pick 210: Easop Winston Jr., WR, Washington State. Emmanuel Sanders was the 49ers’ slot receiver last season, but he recently signed with the Saints. The 49ers also have Trent Taylor, who hasn’t been fully healthy since 2017.

    The 49ers need another slot receiver in case Taylor gets injured again. Winston Jr. is a slot receiver who rarely drops a pass, plus he’s fast enough to play outside — he ran a 4.42 at his Virtual Pro Day. He’s good enough to play as a rookie.

    Round 6, pick 217: Michael Onwenu, G Michigan. The 49ers could use another offensive lineman to compete with Tom Compton and Daniel Brunskill at right guard. Onwenu played in a run-first offense and learned lots of NFL blocking techniques under head coach Jim Harbaugh.

    Round 7, pick 245: Reid Harrison-Ducros, CB, Duquesne. Nickelback K’Waun Williams will be a free agent in 2021, and the 49ers don’t have an heir apparent. His backup currently is Jimmie Ward, the starting free safety. The 49ers need another nickelback.

    Harrison-Ducros is a quality nickel. The NFL didn’t invite him to the Combine, but he held his own Virtual Pro Day where he ran a 4.39 40, a 3.85 20-yard shuttle and a 6.42 3-cone. These times would have been among the best at the Combine. Harrison-Ducros is a small-school prospect with big-time potential and the 49ers can get him with their last pick. Not too shabby.”

    1. Excellent draft. 2 quibbles. I’m not waiting until round 4 to take a guy to compete with Bourne. That’s inexcusable. He’s your 4th best wideout on the team! Besides that, I’m not keen on drafting guys that make a living on their wheels and enter the league on a broken one. You want a guy that can step in day one opposite Samuel, and you want him to threaten the outside with speed. That’s the missing piece to this offense, especially with Goodwin on the move. Quibble two, and it’s a small one, I’d prefer Iwuagwu over Onwenu at pick #217….

        1. I’d love it, baby!

          Seriously though, you gotta bundle a 5th with that 4th or use a player to move back up into round 3 and take Pittman at that point….

    2. Nice. I will take it one step further. There have been Dolphin fans who want to trade up with the 18th pick.
      .
      The Niners could trade back 5 spots from 13 with the Dolphins, for the 18th and 70th picks. Trading back 6 spots from 31 with the Chargers for their 37th and 112th picks, would accomplish the goal of getting draft picks in the first 4 rounds.
      .
      The Niners would end up with picks numbers- 18, 37, 70, 112, 156, 176, 210, 217 and 245.
      .
      As an alternative to Grant’s mock, the Niners could select-
      18- Denzel Mims WR
      37- Cesar Ruiz C
      70- Raekwon Davis DT
      112- Michael Ojemudia CB
      156- Charlie Heck OL
      176- Leki Fotu NT
      210- Justin Strnad LB
      217- Tevis Gipson DE
      245- Tanner Muse S
      .
      The Niners draft a WR, C, DT, CB, OT, NT, LB, DE and Safety.

        1. OK. Here is one that will not be my final mock, because it is just picking at the assigned numbers. No trade backs.
          .
          13- Javon Kinlaw DT
          31- Denzel Mims WR
          156- Saahdiq Charles OL
          176- Leki Fotu NT
          210- Kindle Vildor CB
          217- DeeJay Dallas RB
          245- Tanner Muse S

    3. I took his selections and made a 5 pick mock:

      #13 Okudah CB
      #37 Austin Jackson OT
      #112 Antonio Gandy-Golden WR
      #156 Raequan Williams DT
      #176 Matt Hennessey IOL

  159. Rumors on twitter today about the Eagles possibly trading a 3rd for Breida and the Cowboys being interested in Goodwin.

    Would be fantastic if they could pick up a third and 4th and still keep #31.

    2. What do you two think of the rumor about their interest in Evan Engram? I know he’s had injuries, but what if they used him as an outside receiver?

  160. I feel like I’d be the most happy if the first 3 picks happened like this:

    CB, OT, WR. Doesn’t matter what pick #’s they happen but I think it should be those 3 in that order.

    1. Lol, still trying to get the regime to use a 1st round pick on a cb? Not gonna happen. Rounds 3-5 you’ll get your corner.

      1. I think we might see a shift in philosophy. The need for a premiere corner is now. Sherm has 1 maybe 2 years left and there doesn’t seem to be anyone on the depth chart that can tilt the field anytime soon.

        If Okudah or Henderson fall I think we need to address the position at #13.
        If neither guy is there, snatch the Ruggs.

  161. So, given the six who have expressed interest (I could not tell from Prime Time’s comment if he was interested; if yes, I can re-configure this draft order again), here are the picks. Let me know your thoughts about just letting picks get posted starting from Tuesday morning, and the next person just posting when available, etc., until we get through 32; it would be more spread out, but it gives people who can’t just be in front of their computer for a couple hours straight on Wednesday late afternoon/early evening to space things out. Or, we can keep the start at 3 pm PST on Wednesday, and just get everyone to post in order during that time window. Regardless, here is the draft order:

    GEEP: Picks 1 (Bengals), 7 (Panthers), 13 (NINERS!), 19 (Raiders), 25 (Vikings), and 32 (Chiefs; I swapped 32 and 31 for you so you didn’t get to do both Niner picks).
    RAZOREATER: Picks 2 (Redskins), 8 (Cardinals), 14 (Bucs), 20 (Jaguars), 26 (Dolphins), and 31 (NINERS!)
    SEB: Picks 3 (Lions), 9 (Jaguars), 15 (Broncos), 21 (Eagles), and 27 (Seachickens)
    POT…KETTLE: Picks 4 (Giants), 10 (Browns), 16 (Falcons), 22 (Vikings), and 28 (Ravens)
    REBELSCUM: Picks 5 (Dolphins), 11 (Jets), 17 (Cowgirls), 23 (Patriots), and 29 (Titans)
    DAVE: Picks 6 (Chargers), 12 (Raiders), 18 (Dolphins), 24 (Saints), and 30 (Packers)

  162. “I come to bury Caesar (Grant), not to praise him.”
    “The Emporer has no clothes.”
    I’m unclear on why any interest remains in Grant’s draft projections. His mocks have always been bogus, and so folks are following him over to another site to bring his schlock back here? Chilluns Please! We’ve been liberated; relax and enjoy.
    SI has been football irrelevant since Zimmerman stopped writing. They didn’t get smarter with their recent hire.
    David Fales anyone? Bring back Kap? JG is getting sacked to avoid throw-aways to pad his stats? Greg Roman was deliberately calling plays that would fail because…….it would HELP(?!?) him get a Head Coach gig? Wha…wha….WTF?!?
    Remember when Kaep was arrested for sexual assault in Miami (only he wasn’t)?
    Remember when Dr. York flew to Miami without Jed to trade Harbaugh to the Dolphins? Only Dr. York didn’t go, Jed did go for a family vacation that had nothing to do with the Dolphins.
    Remember when Harbaugh didn’t know about the Roll-out Pass Play and Grant had to school him on it?
    Remember when Grant declared he’s an expert on Jerry Rice…….even though…………
    He never watched him play?
    Grant = < 0

          1. Thanks, I misunderstood, as happens on-line.
            I admire some attempts here to perpetuate. We’ll see what PD is committed to.
            I recall when SF suddenly sh*tcanned their GM just before the draft!

  164. Yup, Grant couldn’t get out of his own way. But my biggest issue was that he allowed non football, bullying, political and racist remarks go unchecked.

    The Grant withdrawals will be gone once the PD fills the void, if that is in their plans.
    With nearly 800 posts, it’s clear to me that this blog is of little interest to them.

    Pot-Kettle came up with a nice idea, this would be a good place for the PD to start with a fresh topic.

  165. If the 49ers can add Evan Engram without giving up too much to get him that sure would be something.

    The rumours around how the team is trying to add a starting calibre, pass catching TE makes me think Shanahan is aiming to make 2 TE sets a larger part of his offense this season. It makes sense too – should help both the running game and passing game and make the offense even less predictable. Will also add another threat across the middle which is JGs strongest area.

    1. Depending on what they give up, it could be a very valuable addition.
      The worry in me says why are they going after a starting type TE? Are negotiations with Kittle not going well?
      Regardless, Shanny loves his 2 TE sets. Adding Engram along with a speedster and a future LT would make this offense complete.

      1. Yeah, I have previously voiced the same concerns over Kittle regarding what looking to add a starting calibre TE may mean. But then I think about how much he seems to genuinely love playing for the 49ers, and how important a piece he is for everything the 49ers do on offense, and I convince myself it is likely more about wanting 2 good TEs on the field than any issues in contract negotiations with Kittle. At least I really hope so!

        And yeah, adding a 2nd TE would likely mean the team would be more interested in a deep threat WR to complement the offense, more so than another big bodied pass catcher over the middle.

        1. I thought Buckner was going to be a 49er for life. I think the problem with Kittle is he might want WR money.
          Now I believe he is worth WR money for what he has given this team but maybe the cap number hurts the long term plan for this team. I say that only because of what Buckner got from the Colts.
          Fingers crossed an extension is announced before training camp.

        2. Part of the thinking may also be that his body is beat up, and his style of play lends to it not holding up.

              2. I’d pay him. You’d pay him, but will the 49ers? That was my point by highlighting some of his injuries.

    2. A consistent theme is also emerging with regards to the TEs they are being linked with – they are all very athletic “move” or “flex” type TEs rather than in line TEs to create mismatches in the passing game against LBs and safeties. That is clearly the profile that Shanahan is after as a complement to Kittle.

  166. There has been some good news from these new mocks I have been seeing. Kinlaw has been going at 16 to the Falcons.
    .
    That means, the Niners may still be able to trade back with the Broncos 2 picks, and still be able to get Kinlaw at 15, along with the 95th pick from the Broncos. The Broncos may want to do that, because many teams are having the Niners select a WR at 13, and the Broncos may covet the picks at 13.
    .
    The other thing I noticed, was that Mims may go sooner than at 31. GB, Minnesota and Philly have been mocking Mims.
    .
    Some mocks have the Chargers pass on a QB at 6, so the Chargers may want to move up to 31 to take a QB. Herbert seems to be falling out of favor, but some teams have been selecting Love near the middle of the first, or 23 to the Pats.

    1. Way ahead of them:

      Razoreater says:
      April 12, 2020 at 12:09 pm
      Easter Bonnet Mock:

      #13)**TRADE**

      Ravens send picks #28(1)+#55(2)+#92(3) and select K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU

      #28)Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
      #31)**TRADE**

      Tampa Brady sends picks #45(2)+2021 3rd and select Austin Jackson, OT, USC

      #45)Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise St.
      #55)Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
      #92)Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia

      #120)**Trade**

      Jets trade for Matt Breida sending Lynch their 4th rounder

      #120)Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA
      #156)Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis
      #176)Javaris Davis, NB, Auburn
      #210)J. R. Reed, S, Georgia
      #217)Cordel Iwuagwu, OG, TCU
      #245)JaMycal Hasty, RB, Baylor

      1. Is that 12 new players? wow! That’s means we are cutting a lot of former draft picks we have drafted and developed the last 3 years.

          1. I’m just saying with the possibility of trading down and acquiring multiple picks, you have to cut guys we’ve drafted the last 3 years.
            I don’t like that approach because most of those guys are getting experience in a complex scheme offensively and defensively.
            With an influx of 12 new rookies, as a coach you are back to teaching.

            1. We’ve got an expanded roster thanks to the new rules, and who is getting cut that’s so valuable?

              Trent Taylor-can’t stay healthy, let him backup or cut him, big whup
              Hurd-who knows if his back is healthy, let him backup and see
              Breida-trade his fumbling buttocks
              Harris-release him no big deal
              Ritchie James-what was he a 7th round pick, what a loss he’d be, lol
              Etc….

              1. Yeah I’m not sure who gets cut but I’m also a proponent of competition.
                I normally adhere to the theory of trading down and acquiring more picks, just not this year.

                This team is ready to compete and on last nights mock draft on the NFL network, Mariucci took Henderson at 13 and Tee Higgins at 31. If we left Thursday night with those 2 guys, it’s a successful draft regardless of what happens Friday and Saturday.

              2. Would you be interested in a wager?

                I’m willing to bet American currency that the 49ers will not draft Henderson at #13.

              3. No I’m not interested in that wager because it will all depend on what the Jets and Raiders do. If the Niners are left with the option to take a corner or WR, or OT, they need to address all 3 positions.
                I want them to take Henderson but it will all depend on what the other 2 teams ahead of them take which has the same needs.

                But with that, what’s the wager?
                Who do they take at 13?

              4. Wager:

                I put up $200 that the 49ers will not select Henderson at #13. Now, if he’s no longer on the board, the bet will become null and void. However, if he’s still on the board when they select and they pass on him, I win. If they take him, you win. Simple.

              5. Nice try. You gotta give me a player back. If they take your guy you win, my guy I win. Neither guy, push.

              6. I don’t have a guy at #13. How about this then, I will bet you $200 that the 49ers will not use their 1st selection on a cb. That means if they trade out of #13, the next pick they make would have to be a cb in order for you to win. If they don’t select a cb with their first pick after trading down from #13, I win. If they stand pat at #13 and make their selection and it’s not a cb, I win. However, if they choose any cb at #13, you would be $200 richer….

              8. Lol, I’ve got big Italian balls and they’re always bouncing to the left and to the right. It’s my belief that my big balls should be held every night!

                The 49ers aren’t taking a cb in the first round period! Not gonna happen!! You’ll thank me later for saving you $200!!!

  168. It is Monday before the draft. That means that today, Tuesday, and Wednesday are ALL April Fools’ Day. Nothing that is said, written, whispered or speculated by teams, expert analysts, players, prospects, agents or fans is worth giving serious consideration.
    None of it.

    1. As Sun Tzu would say, its all about the art of deception! LOL!!!!!!!!

      Hope you are well BT!

  169. There is a lotta smoke being blown today.
    .
    Happy 4-20, puff, puff.
    .
    I sure am glad it is reported that the Niners are willing to trade back both of their first round picks.

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