The Niner's draft will likely focus upon offense. Last year's team defense was more than adequate and largely the reason for the team's successes. Having quality second team players is also a need for every team. Having young, talented players who learn from veterans is the Bill Walsh way. Terminating and trading players - before they become a liability - performance or salary is unfortunate. However, that reality is what the players chose when they adopted the Salary Cap.
The salary cap prevents teams from retaining popular, quality players. The league might consider adding a team rule - if a player remains on the team thru his original contract + 2 years (6 years - typically) their salary counts 50% against the cap.) This will permit teams and fans to maintain a roster that appeals to fans. The salary cap results in fans rooting for jerseys and not players.
The Draft - offensive weapons are needed for Alex Smith to thrive and develop into an elite QB - if he can. Alex's main liabilities are holding the ball too long - a result of wanting making a play and remove the stigmas in his career. Otherwise, Alex is scrupulous with the ball. He is among the best in limiting interceptions. Providing him better protection in the pocket will improve his play and winning percentage. Adding a quality center, one who can make blocking assignments, is key. Peter Konz is the highest ranked center, but there may be another, better option(s).
Keleche Osemele - Iowa State - is a guard who graduated early. Linemen MUST be smart. Keleche is massive. 6'-6", 335. Huge wingspan and strength. H reminds me of Dwight Stevenson - who coach Shula claimed could block the defensive line alone; was a similar prospect. Keleche could handle Center duties +1.
Wisconsin's Kevin Zeitler, graded well above the curve and could provide a solution. He has a strong mind and is and is reported as being a perfectionist.
Guard David De Castro MAY be available an Harbaugh would likely take a former player he knows. Harbaugh may move to add De Castro - if he is worth the move.
Wide Receivers:
A large, fast, and agile target is badly needed to compliment Davis. Too many field goals are the result when receivers cannot get open in the end zone, or they are not tall enough to out leap defenders.
I'm a Brian Quick fan. He is my favorite WR in this draft. Watch his videos to learn why. Tell me he does not remind you of Jerry Rice after making a catch. He is not perfect, but does possesses the rudiments to excel. Quick will likely be available in Round 2 - based upon projections.
Georgia Tech - Stephen Hill is another prospect that might go early in the first round; but team needs often move a player around. Hill has many competitors with more receiving stats and that could reduce his perceived value. If he is available at 30 - the Niners should take him. Hill is unproven due to his school's run first type of offense - that limited his receptions.
Greg Childs is like Quick - same size(s) and great leaping ability - 41" He was injured the past year and a half - patella. He appeared healthy at his pro day.
Corners:
Trumaine Johnson, Montana, 6'-2": Is my pick for the first defense. His size and skilz (that include being tazed by police) will work to improve depth in the back field. He can and has played safety and QB. Potential convicts are better defensive players. I know Pat Willis will assure he behaves. The question is if he be available in the 3rd round.
Kelcie McRay S, Arkansas 6'-2". 205: Again, DB size and speed are needed against the WR they face. Those under 6-0 will not be able to defend in the red zone or in jump ball situations. Kelcie has the size and speed - sub 4.5 40 time and 39" vertical. He faced several future NFL wideouts in the SEC.
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