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On Wednesday we learned that Minshew mania has a chance to come to the Bay Area. We also learned that San Francisco is “running it back” with as close to the same team that took the field Week 1 of 2019 as possible. There are no real glaring needs on the roster, which gives the 49ers a chance to select any player at No. 12 overall.
They’re in a prime spot to potentially trade down and another Day 2 pick who could contribute right away. Before, I thought wide receiver was out of the question early in the draft. Now? Not as much.
What’s going on: The 49ers already have brought back some key players, including the big one — left tackle Trent Williams. GM John Lynch has also made a lot of headway in keeping the nucleus together, as the 49ers also re-signed fullback Kyle Juszczyk, defensive lineman D.J. Jones, and defensive backs Jason Verrett, Emmanuel Moseley and Jaquiski Tartt. The 49ers are set up nicely for the remainder of the offseason because there are no glaring needs that must be filled. Sure, they can upgrade and build depth at some positions, but many of the pieces are already in place.
Draft picks: Nine — Nos. 12, 43, 102, 117, 155, 172, 181, 194, 230
Way too early prediction: 11-5 (first place)
Mock Draft Roundup: 49ers could be eyeing defense in Round 1
The likely departure of Richard Sherman could prompt John Lynch to prioritize finding a premier cover corner over draft weekend.
Patrick Surtain II is essentially cornerback 1A or 1B depending on how you view fellow draft prospect, Farley. Perhaps Farley’s surgery changes the decision-making for NFL scouts on who is the top cornerback. Surtain II is the son of three-time Pro Bowler, Patrick Surtain, known primarily for his strong play with the Miami Dolphins. Surtain II is an instinctual, long cornerback who could fit in the Richard Sherman mold. It goes back to the question of whether Lynch is willing to finally nab a cornerback in the first round.
Coleman will be reunited with Jets coach Robert Saleh and several assistants, all of whom left San Francisco after the season. After a few failed attempts over the past week, Saleh finally landed a 49ers free agent.
Coleman joins a relatively unproven backfield that includes Ty Johnson, La’Mical Perine and Josh Adams, none of whom has rushed for more than 511 yards in a season. There’s also a good chance the Jets will draft a running back.
The Jets plan to run the 49ers’ offense under new coordinator Mike LaFleur, a former San Francisco assistant, so Coleman will be familiar with the scheme.
During yesterday’s press conference, Tartt expressed a desire to blitz more. The examples of Tartt’s impact near the line of scrimmage are evident when watching the 2017 film. Tartt played in the box much more while offering one on one coverage on tight ends.
Jordan Reed has no shot at stopping Tartt on this play. Breaking through the line and getting the TFL while standing at the line of scrimmage is impressive. If Demeco Ryans can utilize Tartt’s sure tackling and technique, Tartt’s value rises and adds another wrinkle to this defense.
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers: Danny Amendola, WR
He’s 35 but still showed some juice last year as a slot receiver, catching 46 balls for 602 yards with the Lions. Amendola ranked 26th among 78 qualifying wide receivers in yards per route run. He could be a nice option for a contending team like the 49ers that’s looking for a slot option on a one-year deal.