Tired of the same old, same old?
Shocker. Some would call it a stunner. 49ers fans are largely against investing in the defensive line in the first round tonight. Thirty-six percent of fans will be disappointed if the first-round selection is a defensive lineman. The draft process is an imperfect science. Fourty-eight percent of first-round selections “hit.” Each round after sees that percentage slashed in half.
Understandably, 49ers fans want the team to invest in the offensive line for today and the future. However, simply selecting an offensive lineman in the first for the sake of it is dangerous. There is no sure thing in any draft, but choosing an offensive lineman just to say you selected one isn’t optimal. Many have deemed this offensive tackle draft class as one of the deepest in memory. If that is the case, then the rush to address the position shouldn’t be there. Unfortunately, the 49ers won’t be in position for the “can’t miss” offensive lineman.
Think back to the DeForest Buckner trade. I know, I’m sorry. The 49ers moved Buckner for a top-15 pick and selected his replacement while allowing the Bucs to move ahead of them, costing them Tristan Wirfs. Think about losing Buckner but being able to add Wirfs instead. The best player available is always the best method over pressing need in any draft.
I’m not advocating for a defensive lineman in the first round. Seeing how the board plays out and remaining flexible is the 49ers’ biggest asset headed into tonight. I’m certain the team will address the offensive line in this draft. If not, that would be the bigger crime, but jamming an offensive line pick for the sake of it doesn’t feel like good business.
Being able to play the board and remain flexible is how the 49ers wanted this draft to go. They have ten picks to restock the cupboard. It is a very important draft class, but don’t panic and miss out on impact players.
About the Author: Insidethe49
