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NFL free agency had another minor run with a few notable names finding new homes. Friday wrapped up with the New York Jets signing free agent quarterback Michael Vick. I guess he'll compete with Geno Smith for the starting job? Rex Ryan is on the hottest of seats, so signing Vick would seem to be his last all-in effort.
That move should have no bearing on the NFL Draft, but other moves will start to mix things up. The most notable on Friday was the Oakland Raiders decision to trade for QB Matt Schaub. That does not remove QB from a need, but it could mean the Raiders are prepared to wait a few rounds. They were not a lock to take a quarterback in the first round, and this would seemingly decrease that likelihood a little bit.
The latest round of mock drafts continue to have the 49ers rolling with wide receivers (11), cornerbacks (10) or defensive linemen (7). It's mostly the same names, with WR Brandin Cooks and CB Jason Verrett each leading the way in 5 mocks apiece. However, we do have a couple new names. USC wide receiver Marqise Lee makes his return to our mocks after an extended absence, and Boise State defensive end Demarcus Lawrence joins Ra'Shede Hageman, Louis Nix and Stephon Tuitt among the defensive linemen.
I remain skeptical about the first round defensive lineman, primarily because of the long-term need at cornerback and wide receiver. The 49ers could very well go into the 2014 season as is and have their starters, but we all know they'll push for more competition at both cornerback and wide receiver. And considering Michael Crabtree, Chris Culliver, Eric Wright and Chris Cook are all either entering their walk year or on a 1-year deal, there are long-term question marks. Ideally the 49ers extend Crabtree and Culliver, but we don't know how that will play out. Even if they eventually do get extended, there is nothing wrong with going deeper at both positions.
It will be interesting to see if any of these mocks actually get it right come draft day. I remain convince the team trades either up or down from No. 30, which could make all these mocks worthless. Or I suppose, more worthless than they currently are! I remain focused on the positions rather than the players.