San Francisco 49ers' Draft Strategy for 2024 NFL Draft
The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for a significant presence in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, with an arsenal of 11 selections at their disposal. This robust draft capital positions the Niners to strategically address their roster needs and continue building on their recent successes.
Compensatory Picks and Trades
As part of this year's draft strategy, the 49ers are predicted to receive up to four compensatory picks, which stem from net losses incurred during the previous year's free-agent signing period. Although the team could have gained an additional pick after losing Mike McGlinchey, this was negated by the acquisition of Javon Hargrave.
In addition to their own selections in the first four rounds, the 49ers acquired an extra fourth-round pick through a trade that sent Trey Lance to the Dallas Cowboys. The placement of the Niners' first-round pick will be determined by their performance in the NFC Championship game against the Detroit Lions, with their selection slotting in anywhere from 29th to 32nd overall.
The departure of quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to the Las Vegas Raiders is expected to yield a third-round compensatory pick. Furthermore, the moves involving Samson Ebukam to the Indianapolis Colts, Jimmie Ward to the Houston Texans, and Azeez Al-Shaair to the Tennessee Titans should contribute additional fifth- and sixth-round picks, respectively.
However, the 49ers will not make selections in the fifth and sixth rounds with their own picks due to trades, having sent their fifth-round pick to acquire Christian McCaffrey and their sixth-round pick (along with a seventh-rounder) to Denver for Randy Gregory.
In an unusual move, the 49ers requested a special compensatory pick at the NFL trading deadline to account for the losses of DeMeco Ryans and Ran Carthon, although the outcome of this request has yet to be disclosed.
Addressing Team Needs
Looking ahead to the draft, the 49ers have clearly identified areas for improvement within their squad. A key position of focus is the cornerback spot, which they aim to strengthen. Additionally, there's a concerted effort to add experienced players to bolster the right side of the offensive line, ensuring better protection and run blocking moving forward.
The team is also contemplating the addition of depth at running back, seeking powerful downhill runners as well as versatile backs who can contribute beyond the first round of selections.
Potential Draft Targets
A few collegiate prospects have caught the eye of the 49ers' scouting department. For the cornerback position, Kamari Lassiter stands out as a potential draft target. His skill set aligns well with the team's requirements for bolstering their secondary.
On the offensive line, Layden Robinson and Xavier Truss are seen as viable options to provide the needed experience and stability. Moreover, Christian Jones emerges as another prospective mid-round pick who could fulfill tackle responsibilities effectively.
When it comes to reinforcing the running back corps, the 49ers have several candidates on their radar. Kendall Milton, Cody Schrader, and Carson Steele are among those considered for their powerful running styles, capable of making an immediate impact on the ground game. Meanwhile, Dylan Laube, Trey Benson, and Bucky Irving offer versatility and could be valuable assets in the backfield when selected after the initial round.
Conclusion
With the 2024 NFL Draft on the horizon, the San Francisco 49ers are poised to make strategic choices that will shape the future of their franchise. Their collection of 11 picks provides ample opportunity to infuse young talent into the team, addressing key positions of need while maintaining the flexibility to adapt their strategy as the draft unfolds. As April 25-27 approaches, all eyes will be on the Niners' war room, where decisions made will resonate through the upcoming season and beyond.