The San Francisco 49ers roster didn’t have many starting spots to fill heading into the NFL Draft. Sure, there were a couple of positions where the team felt like they could upgrade.
Addressing any depth concerns was also a priority. But we spent the past couple of months going back and forth between receivers and EDGE rushers for a reason.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke about the expectations he has for this draft class, saying, “I’m always hoping that we got a chance that all these guys make the team.
That’s kind of the goal with all your draft picks. You go in with six and find a way to get to eight. If we can find eight guys to make our 53, you get a lot better.”
If eight make the roster, that means eight will be released. The writing may be on the wall for players on the back end of the roster. Examples include Isaac Guerendo, Jalen Graham, Nick Zakelj, and one of the receivers. Take your pick between Jacob Cowing, Jordan Watkins, or Demarcus Robinson.
Shanahan believes free agency put the 49ers in a position where the draft picks may not make the roster:
“Now, I think starting with free agency, how free agency went, I think that’s going to be a huge challenge. That’s why you get in some spots, and you’re like, ‘man, I really want to take this position.’ But the best available here, I don’t think, could beat out who we have. Whether you want to get better or not at the position. It doesn’t always show that way. And I think we really did good in free agency. So, I think it’ll be a challenge for all eight of these guys to make our team. I think we have a chance for a couple guys possibly to start or have a chance to start. And I think a number of these guys can be a big part or have a chance to start two years from now when you have some unrestricted free agents that we lose. So overall, I hope all eight guys just contribute.”
The first two picks, De’Zhaun Stribling and Romello Height, should play starter-like snaps.
Shanahan thinking down the line was interesting. After he took snaps at center during the Senior Bowl, it would not be a surprise to see the team use this season as somewhat of a redshirt year for Carver Willis, before eventually taking over for Jake Brendel after this season.
Gracen Halton and Kaelon Black should step in as role players in specific packages. At the same time, Jaden Dugger could use some seasoning before developing into a contributor, whether that’s at SAM or WILL linebacker.
Which rookies do you think have the best chance of playing in Year 1?
